If your jaw aches, feels tight by the end of the day, or wakes you up sore, you have probably tried a few things already. Emface is one of the newest ways Tampa TMJ can help, and it is a different kind of treatment: no needles, no surgery and no downtime.
What is Emface?
Emface, made by BTL, is FDA-cleared for TMJ dysfunction and the pain that comes with it. It is cleared to relieve symptoms of muscle spasm, re-educate the jaw muscles, increase local blood flow, and help maintain or increase how far your jaw opens. You can read the FDA clearance here (opens in a new tab).
How does it work?
Each applicator combines two technologies. Gentle radiofrequency warms the tissue, which helps ease muscle spasm and improve circulation. HIFES stimulation contracts the jaw muscles, which helps treat TMJ dysfunction, ease the pain that comes with it, and support how far your jaw opens. The applicators rest over the jaw joint area, just in front of your ears, while you sit back and relax.
What does a session feel like?
- About 20 minutes. Most people simply relax.
- Warmth and gentle contractions. You feel a comfortable warmth and your jaw muscles working. We adjust the intensity to what you tell us, and it should never burn or hurt.
- You are in control. You hold a button that stops the treatment anytime.
- No downtime. You can get right back to your day.
How many sessions will I need?
For TMJ, Dr. Leon starts with a series of four sessions, 2 to 14 days apart. She checks your symptoms and jaw function along the way. If more sessions would help, especially when symptoms are longstanding or more complex, she talks it through with you based on how you respond.
Who can Emface help?
Emface can be a great fit if your jaw muscles feel tight, sore or in spasm, if your jaw feels stiff or does not open as far as it used to, or if you want a needle-free option as part of your care.
Tampa TMJ also offers Emface for facial treatments, as part of its facial aesthetics and rejuvenation care. It is a separate plan, so ask about it at your visit.
Why we start with an evaluation
“At Tampa TMJ, I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to TMJ care,” says Dr. Doraida Leon. Jaw pain can come from the joints, the muscles, the bite and more, so your first visit looks at the whole picture, with in-office 3D imaging when it helps. Then Dr. Leon builds one plan around what she finds. Emface can be part of it, alongside custom appliances, injectable PRF, in-office therapies and more.
Ready to find out if Emface can help you?
Your first step is an evaluation with Dr. Leon, in English or Spanish. Book your evaluation or call (813) 772-4563. Tampa TMJ is at 3911 West Waters Avenue, Suite 4, in Tampa, with parking steps from the front door.
Questions patients ask
Is Emface right for everyone?
Tell us about pregnancy, a pacemaker or other implant, metal near the treatment area, or any other health condition, and Dr. Leon will make sure it is right for you. Braces, crowns and fillings do not necessarily rule it out.
Is Emface FDA-cleared for TMJ?
Yes. Emface is FDA-cleared for TMJ dysfunction and the pain that comes with it, and to relieve symptoms of muscle spasm and support how far the jaw opens.
Does Emface hurt?
It feels like a comfortable warmth with gentle muscle contractions. We adjust the intensity to what you tell us, and you can stop the treatment anytime.
How long is a session, and how many will I need?
About 20 minutes. For TMJ, Dr. Leon starts with four sessions, 2 to 14 days apart, and adjusts from there based on how you respond.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as redness, slight swelling, a warm feeling, dry skin or muscle soreness. Dr. Leon goes over the full list with you before your first session.
Is there any downtime?
No. You can go right back to your day after a session.
Do I need an evaluation first?
Yes. Dr. Leon evaluates your jaw first, so your plan fits what is really going on, with or without Emface.
How much does Emface for TMJ cost?
Your cost depends on your plan, which Dr. Leon builds after your evaluation, and the office walks you through it before you start. Financing is available, including the CareCredit credit card for health care costs. Subject to credit approval. If you are paying for your care yourself, you have the right to a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges. Ask us when you schedule.
