Limited Time Offer:

TMJ & TMD Consultation

Including In-depth exam, X-Rays, One-on-one consultation with Dr. Lynch, Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction consultation, & Customized treatment plan

Most Major PPO Insurances Accepted But We Do Not Accept Medicaid or Medicare

"Best staff. They’re too friendly and nice and they’re very professional. Would recommend it to anyone that needs dental care."


- Zainab A.

★★★★★

The Northern Virginia Dentist Magazine: Featuring Dr. Lynch

Relief starts when the exact cause of the TMJ problem is found. Dr. Bernard Lynch of Dental Care Burke in Virginia has been trained in neuromuscular dentistry. This training gives him precise tools to detect problems in the jaw and the TMJ. He knows just how to correct TMD to eliminate the root cause of the problem, not just relieve it for a week or a month

TMJ Treatment in Burke, VA

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the joint that connects your lower teeth to your skull. TMJ is an intricate joint that allows jaw movement in many directions. This joint is responsible for essential functions like chewing, talking, and yawning. The joint is separated from the temple bone by a small piece of soft tissue (cartilage) above it, allowing for painless movement. This delicate system can be compromised and lead to temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), which causes various unpleasant symptoms and affects daily life.


TMD symptoms include:

  • When moving the jaw, you may hear clicking, popping or grating noises.
  • Difficulty opening the mouth or closing it fully
  • Jaw locking in open or closed position
  • The jaw, face, or ear area may be tender or painful.
  • Headaches, neck pain, or shoulder discomfort
  • Swelling of the side of the cheek

  • What makes the TMJ unique?

    The TMJ is a complex joint that combines sliding and hinge motions. It allows for a broader range of movement than simple hinge joints such as the knee. This unique functionality allows forward, backward side-to-side, and rotational movement. However, the complexity of the joint makes it more susceptible to dysfunction, especially when exposed to excessive stress or misalignment.

  • Causes Of TMD Problems

    Problems with the TMJ are referred to as temporomandibular joint disorders or temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) for short.


    TMD typically occurs when the patient’s bite is misaligned or the protective cartilage slips out of place due to an injury to the head or neck. Other TMD causes include chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth and arthritis. 


    Joint Disorders or Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) are terms used to describe problems with the TMJ. Many factors may cause TMD. However, its causes are not always immediately obvious. Some of the most common causes are:

    1. Misaligned Bite: If the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly, this can cause undue strain on the TMJ.
    2. Injury A trauma to the neck, head, or jaw (such as an accident) or sports injury can damage or displace cartilage.
    3. Chronic Clenching or Grinding (Bruxism) Consistent teeth grinding or clenching, particularly during sleep, may overwork jaw muscles and place excessive pressure on the TMJ.
    4. Arthritis Conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid can cause pain and limit joint function.
    5. Stress High-stress levels can cause people to clench or tighten the muscles surrounding the TMJ, which can cause pain and dysfunction.
    6. Poor Posture: Slouching and holding the head in an incorrect position for long periods of time (e.g. when using a computer or smartphone) can cause neck and jaw muscle strain, which contributes to TMD.

    Contact now for a TMJ or a Jaw Specialist near me


  • 5 Reasons to Get Your Bite Checked

    Your bite—the way your upper and lower teeth fit together—has a large effect on your health and well-being. Here are five reasons to get your bite checked and make sure it is properly aligned:


    1. Prevent teeth from cracking or breaking 
    2. Protect teeth from premature wear and tear 
    3. Chew food properly for maximum nutrients
    4. Breathe through your nose (a misaligned bite can cause mouth-breathing)
    5. Find out if you have TMD so you can relieve the pain

    Looking for a TMJ specialist near you? schedule a consultation right now!

  • TMJ Symptoms You May Experience

    If you have any of these symptoms, you may be dealing with TMJ dysfunction.


    • Jaw clicking, popping or grating sounds
    • Worn down teeth
    • Clenching or grinding the teeth
    • Headaches or migraines that occur frequently
    • Face, jaw, ear, or neck pain
    • Difficulty speaking or chewing
    • Tinnitus is a feeling of fullness in the ear or ringing.

    Ignoring symptoms such as chronic pain, difficulty speaking, or difficulty eating can cause further complications.

Looking for a TMJ specialist near you? schedule a consultation right now!

I Want To Schedule A TMJ/TMD Specialist Near Me

"Dr. Lynch and his staff are just what you always wanted when it comes to your dream dentist and his team.  They make you feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door.  They listen to you and give you options you never even considered!"


- L.M.

★★★★★

"Exceptional and professional. Best dentist I've ever had. Will continue with Dr. Lynch forever. Staff is very competent and very friendly."


- N.C.

★★★★★

How Dr. Lynch Treats TMJ Problems?

The treatment depends on the cause that shows up from a detailed evaluation. Eliminating this cause might require realigning the teeth or contouring some of the teeth to change the way the jaws meet when you bite. If your bite is off, this pulls your lower jaw out of its ideal position. Muscles are stressed and spasms result. A night guard is sometimes needed to prevent the teeth from being ground together at night. Some night guards also help shift the lower jaw into a more stress-free position.


Low-frequency electrical stimulation of the muscles can also address the facial, jaw, neck and shoulder tightness that results in headaches and migraines. There are even TMJ exercises and massage techniques that can help correct this pain and stiffness.


Ninety percent of TMJ pain is related to the muscles, particularly those used for chewing. Dr. Lynch thoroughly examines your bite and may measure your muscle activity using an advanced technique called “electromyography.” This is an electronic diagnostic technique which Dr. Lynch performs using a delicate instrument to precisely record and evaluate muscle activity related to your bite. With this technical information, Dr. Lynch can then successfully address your TMD.



By aligning a patient’s bite, Dr. Lynch has eliminated headaches, including migraines and pain in the neck, back and shoulders. He has also reduced clenching and grinding and even relieved snoring to improve sleep.

  • Read More

    Dr. Lynch specializes in diagnosing and treating TMD with the goal of relieving pain and restoring the proper function of the jaw. Dr. Lynch treats TMJ problems by focusing on the muscles, especially those involved in chewing. Since 90% of TMJ symptoms are related to muscle pain--especially when it comes to chewing-related issues--Dr. Lynch takes a holistic approach to addressing the root of the problem.


    Advanced Diagnosis Techniques: Dr. Lynch examines your jaw and bite muscles. Electromyography, an advanced electronic measurement technique that uses electronic signals to measure muscle activity, is one of the key diagnostic tools he uses. Dr. Lynch uses a delicate instrument to record and evaluate your muscles in relation to your bite. All of this detailed data allows him to identify abnormalities and tailor your treatment plan.


    Effective Treatment: Dr. Lynch's treatment can relieve a variety of symptoms, including:


    • Headaches and migraines
    • Neck, back, and shoulder pain
    • Clenching and grinding
    • Snoring and sleep disturbances

    Dr. Lynch's treatments not only relieve immediate discomfort but also improve the quality of life in the long term. Treatment may include oral appliances, bite adjustment, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes.


    Customized Treatment Plans: No two TMD cases are the same. Dr. Lynch’s approach is highly personalized, ensuring each patient gets the best care for their symptoms and underlying cause. This patient-centered approach has helped countless people find lasting relief from TMJ pain.


    Why You Should Check Your Bite: Your bite, or how your upper and bottom teeth fit together, plays a crucial role in your health and well-being. Here are five reasons why you should have your bite checked by a specialist.


    Preventing teeth from breaking or cracking: An unbalanced bite can put excessive pressure on some teeth, making them susceptible to fractures.

    Protecting teeth from premature wear and tear: A misaligned bite can lead to uneven wear, which can cause sensitivity and decay.

    Ensuring you are chewing your food properly: Proper alignment will help you break down your food and aid digestion.

    Helping you breathe through your nose: Misaligned teeth can lead to mouth breathing, which can cause dry mouth, bad breath, and other oral issues.

    Identifying TMD Early and Treating It: By detecting and treating TMD at an early stage, you can avoid worsening symptoms and long-term complications.

Are you suffering from any of the following symptoms?

➢ Clicking or popping in the jaw
➢ Worn-down teeth
➢ Clenching or grinding the teeth
➢ Frequent headaches 
➢ Pain in the face, jaw, ear or neck

If so, you may be having problems with your “temporomandibular joint ” or "temporomandibular joint dysfunction" and a TMJ specialist is what you need.

I Want A TMJ/TMD Consultation

GET A TMJ/TMD CONSULTATION

If you are concerned you may have a TMJ disorder (TMD), get a consultation with Dr. Lynch. 

This offer includes:

➢ In-depth exam

➢ X-Rays

➢ One-on-one consultation with Dr. Lynch

➢ Customized treatment plan

Schedule Your TMJ Consultation Today.

Tips to Prevent TMJ Disorders 

Although some TMD causes are not avoidable, you can still take steps to maintain your jaw health and reduce the risk.


  • Maintain Good Posture: Avoid slouching and keep your head aligned with your spine.
  • Avoid Hard and Chewy Foods: Reduce strain on your jaws by eating soft foods.
  • Stress Management: Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can help reduce muscle tension.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: A custom-fitted, protective mouthguard can protect your jaw and teeth if you grind or clench them.
  • Avoid Neck and Jaw Strain: Take breaks from screens.
Make My Appointment Now

It's Important to Seek Professional Help.

Living with TMD is frustrating and disruptive. The good news is that it can be treated. A TMJ specialist, like Dr. Lynch, can offer significant relief. With the right diagnosis, you can improve your jaw function and reduce pain.


Dr. Lynch's patient-centered approach ensures that your individual needs are met. Using the latest technology and techniques, he can help you achieve lasting effects.


Do not let TMJ pain stop you from achieving your goals. Call today for a consultation to start your journey towards a pain-free, healthier jaw.

Friendly Family Dentistry

At Dental Care Burke, we are committed to providing the best in dental care for your entire family.
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We're available 24 hours a day!

Give us a call today at (703) 596-1555 to schedule an appointment.

Patient shares experience at 

Dental Care Burke

"Dr. Lynch is very knowledgeable and professional.  His demeanor puts me at ease.  Dr. Lynch takes the time to explain everything and is open to all the questions I have.  Dr. Lynch has corrected the mistakes made in my dental care by previous dentists.


His offices are clean and Dr. Lynch uses state of the art technology to further my dental care.  I have never felt more at ease going to my dental appointments!


The staff is also very knowledgeable, accommodating, and professional.


Thank you Dr. Lynch, Josh, and Mahmoud!  You are the best of the best!"


- Kwan L.

★★★★★

Hear what patients have to say

More reviews from happy patient at Dental Care Burke

"I love Dr. Lynch AND his staff! (Josh is the best - always helpful - follows through - even texts on his day off!) I started treatment for various issues - fillings, crown replacement, etc. When my two front teeth continually needed repairs for chips that were filled (due to the nature of the chip location - and from previous dentists), Dr. Lynch explained that I needed crowns. I will admit, I was TERRIFIED, but they turned out beautifully. My teeth are actually prettier than before, and no one even noticed that I had crowns. I would trust Dr. Lynch's suggestion on anything that I needed. He's the best dentist that I've ever encountered, bar none!"


- Linda T.

★★★★★

"The office uses the most modern equipment and techniques to make even difficult procedures a lot easier, more thorough and as permanent and teeth can be. The staff (hygienists and dentists) is equally superb."



- Greg M.

★★★★★

"I had a an amazing experience! Everyone was a pleasure and i’d totally recommend Dr. Bernard Lynch!"


- Bedresia T.

★★★★★

"Constantly amazed by the quality of care and attention. In fact it has become my routine to schedule a visit every time I travel from the U.K. To America. Very friendly customer service. Pleasant office to visit. I would recommend it to anyone!"


- Zekarias A.

★★★★★

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Accepted Insurances

We accept most insurance plans and will gladly process your claim. Please bring the necessary information with you on your first visit. For your convenience, we also accept payments made with your Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Financing is available.

Dental Insurance Welcome

Note: If you do not see your plan, do not worry. Call us & we will work with you to find the best option.

Patient shares experience at

Dental Care Burke

"I had been very anxious about my teeth for some time before visiting Dr. Lynch’s office. Age, finances and no dental insurance had my teeth in a terrible state. The staff was so friendly and caring that I was soon put at ease.


Dr. Lynch took extra time to discuss my situation and explain all the options available to me. I left feeling quite confident that I had made the right choice in choosing Dr Lynch’s office and would recommend him to anyone."

- Janet D.

★★★★★

Don't Just Rely on Drugs Or Surgery

Drugs and surgery are not needed to relieve most cases of TMJ problems. Muscle relaxants can help for a little while, but they are just covering up the problem. Surgery is only needed in a small number of cases. Learn about the therapies that can relieve your pain by resolving the root cause of your problem. In a consultation with Dr. Lynch, you can learn why you have been suffering for so long. Few dentists have Dr. Lynch’s training in this area. Finally, you can get a definite answer as to why your jaw is always so sore.

TMJ Treatment FAQs — Burke, VA

  • What is TMJ/TMD?

    TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint — the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to conditions that cause pain, stiffness, or dysfunction in this joint and the surrounding muscles. Symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, earaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth.

  • What causes TMJ disorders?

    TMJ disorders can be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, misaligned bite, arthritis, stress, or injury to the jaw. In many cases, the exact cause involves a combination of factors. Dr. Lynch uses advanced diagnostic tools to identify the specific cause of your TMJ problem before recommending treatment.

  • Does Dr. Lynch specialize in TMJ treatment?

    Yes. Dr. Lynch has advanced training in neuromuscular dentistry through the Las Vegas Institute (LVI), which focuses specifically on the relationship between the jaw, bite, and surrounding muscles. This specialized training gives him precise tools to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders at their root cause — not just mask the symptoms.

  • What TMJ treatments are available at Dental Care Burke?

    Dr. Lynch offers non-surgical TMJ treatment options, including custom night guards, bite adjustments, low-frequency electrical muscle stimulation (TENS), TMJ exercises, and massage techniques. The specific treatment depends on the cause identified during your evaluation. Surgery is rarely needed.

  • Do I need surgery for TMJ?

    In most cases, no. Dr. Lynch's approach focuses on non-surgical treatments that address the root cause of TMJ problems. Muscle relaxants and surgery are typically unnecessary when the underlying bite and muscle issues are properly diagnosed and treated. During your consultation, Dr. Lynch will explain exactly why you've been experiencing symptoms and what non-surgical options are available.

  • Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?

    Many dental and medical insurance plans provide some coverage for TMJ treatment, though the extent of coverage varies. Our team will verify your benefits and help you understand your options before treatment begins. Call (703) 596-1555 to schedule a TMJ consultation.

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DCB - TMJ and TMD Dentistry page

 *We DO NOT ACCEPT HMO Insurance, State Insurance, Medicaid/Medicare, or discount plans. Fees apply for services.