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Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center

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Eden Prairie, MN
Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center

We focus on TMJ/TMD & Facial Pain Relief, BioRejuvenation Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign, We provide the solution than results in long-term relief.

Our Eden Prairie practice provides comprehensive health-centered dentistry services including TMJ/TMD & Facial Pain Relief, BioRejuvenation Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign, Restorative Care, Family Dentistry, Dental Implants, Periodontal Care, and Senior Dentistry. Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center specializes in TMJ health and facial pain relief with decades of experience treating TMJ/TMD symptoms. We understand the comprehensive evaluation and individualized care required for treating this condition. Since TMJ issues can cause chronic facial pain as well as a wide scope of other symptoms, many patients receive improper care or are sent to the wrong specialists. In addition, with a cascade of other numerous debilitating symptoms, many patients experience going from doctor to doctor before proper diagnosis. We have countless patient testimonials and success stories in treating TMJ/TMD and finding preventative measures that lower your risk of developing this painful condition again. With all the leading oral technology, we custom create every treatment plan with various oral appliances for the most effective recovery. Our methods used to relieve patients from TMJ and facial pain and rejuvenate the smile have proven effective, successful, and rewarding. We are a health centered dental team, working together with our patients to help you achieve the dental health you want. We accomplish this by working closely with you, the patient, through education and co-discovery of your dental health. Dr. Gallagher and the staff are dedicated to continuing education and staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies to improve our patients’ oral health experiences. OUR CORE VALUES:
We maintain a practice founded on the core values of Dr. Mike Gallagher, and value the relationships we build without patients. Trust, honesty, comfort and high quality care are of the utmost importance to us.

02/13/2026

❤️ This Valentine’s Day, I’m Reflecting on Why I Love What I Do – Helping hopeless patients with TMJ enjoy life again! ❤️

Imagine feeling completely hopeless about your TMJ condition after seeing 12 medical practitioners and still being unable to find relief from a terrible, debilitating condition. It seems unimaginable, right? Well, it happened to one of my patients, and I had the privilege of being the final practitioner who helped Glenn Bellman become pain free and return to enjoying life again.

When I think of all the patients I’ve had the privilege to care for over the years, Glenn’s story reminds me almost daily why I became a dentist and why I am so passionately focused on TMJ diagnosis and treatment, helping people get their lives back.

After nearly three years of unbearable pain, restricted breathing, difficulty swallowing, and tingling in his arms and torso, Glenn finally experienced real transformation through my TMJ treatment protocol.

Before coming to me, he had seen 12 practitioners with no success - including a Periodontist, two Oral Surgeons, an Endodontist, Chiropractor, Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor, Neurologist, Facial Pain Specialist, Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist, and even a Hypnotist.
In many ways, his case was classic TMJ — but in others, it was unique. TMJ affects everyone differently. Glenn had constant pain on the left side of his face near his jaw that radiated to his ear and down his neck. He experienced tingling in his forearm, torso, and face — yet he didn’t have clicking or popping in the jaw, and others believed his jaw functioned correctly.

When the pain progressed into his throat, causing difficulty breathing and swallowing, and he could no longer sleep despite heavy medication, he knew he needed another answer.
Listening to his story was heartbreaking. I truly felt the weight of his hopelessness. In that moment, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be — doing the right work, at the right place, at the right time.

I spent the next two days carefully reviewing his case and crafting a personalized treatment plan.

If you would like to read Glenn’s full TMJ success story, you can visit my website: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/tmj-health-tmd/a-hopeless-tmj-patient-is-now-pain-free/

💗 If you or someone you love is suffering from TMJ symptoms, please don’t lose hope.

If you are in the Eden Prairie, Minnesota area, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, Plymouth, Eagan, Richfield or surrounding areas or willing to travel to my location, I would certainly be happy to provide a consultation for $150 to meet with you and discuss your concerns in detail. I believe that by working together, we can find a solution to the issues you are experiencing and help you get back on track with your health and enjoying life again!

Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
(952) 942-9600

https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/

01/22/2026

❄️ Join Us at the Snowball Open on Long Lake, Saturday Jan 31, 2026!

Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center is excited to participate in the 39th Annual Orono Lions Club Snowball Open, taking place Saturday, January 31, 2026, on Long Lake in front of Birch’s on the Lake. We will be grilling, have a smore’s station, & prize giveaway!

This long-running winter tradition brings the community together for a full day of fun, food, music, and giving back, and we’re proud to be part of it!

Whether you’re planning to play a round of ice golf or just enjoy the festivities, the Snowball Open offers something for everyone. Here’s what’s happening throughout the day:

• Brunch from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
• 18 holes of “Ice Golf” with tee times from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
• Happy Hour from 10:00 AM–6:00 PM in the Brewhouse
• Après DJ Deck Party with DJ John Whitaker from 1:00–4:00 PM
• Ice Bar with Luge from Red Bull and Northland Vodka
• Evening DJ Party with DJ Roxy from 7:00–10:00 PM in the Brewhouse
• Champagne bar, THC seltzers, bonfires, s’mores, and a full menu available

The event will also include a prize giveaway, adding another fun reason to stick around, explore the ice, and enjoy everything the Snowball Open has to offer.

Be sure to stop by and say hello if you see our team out on the ice. We love supporting local events like this and connecting with the community outside the office. Events like the Snowball Open are a great reminder of how much fun winter in Minnesota can be when the community comes together to celebrate.

🎟️ Tickets are $25 with advance online purchase or $35 per person on the day of the event, with proceeds supporting the Orono Lions Club and their community initiatives.

👉 Learn more and purchase tickets here:
https://birchsonthelake.com/events/

Bundle up, bring your friends, and come enjoy one of Minnesota’s most unique winter events! We hope to see you there!

12/05/2025

Hi everyone, Dr. Mike Gallagher here. My team and I want to make it easy for you to finish the year strong and step into 2026 with confidence in your oral health.

This season can bring extra stress for many of us, and I’ve already had the privilege of helping several patients over the last several weeks, find relief from TMJ and facial pain, one of the core focuses of my practice.

Supporting patients through the tension, clenching, headaches, and discomfort that often surface during the holidays is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. If you’re struggling with TMJ symptoms, or if you’ve been putting off an evaluation, now is a great time to get the care you deserve.

Beyond TMJ therapy, I also proudly offer:
✨ Comprehensive preventive care
✨ Full-mouth rehabilitation
✨ Cosmetic dentistry & smile makeovers
✨ I'm a Certified Invisalign Provider
✨ Biologic & minimally invasive dentistry

Whether you’re already part of our dental family or considering joining us, we’d love to help you get a jump start on your 2026 oral health goals and wellness resolutions.

And of course, dental emergencies can happen, especially around the holidays. If something unexpected arises, please check our schedule below and we will do everything we can to help.
________________________________________

📅 Office Hours for the Remainder of 2025 & Early 2026
(We’d love to see you before year-end!)

Mon. 12/8/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues. 12/9/25: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed. 12/10/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Thurs. 12/11/25: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Mon. 12/15/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues. 12/16/25: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed. 12/17/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Thurs. 12/18/25: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Mon. 12/22/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues. 12/23/25: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed. 12/24/25: Closed for Holiday
Thurs. 12/25/25: Closed for Holiday

Mon. 12/29/25: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues. 12/30/25: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed. 12/31/25: Closed for Holiday
Thurs. 1/1/26: Closed for Holiday

🎉 HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Mon. 1/5/26: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues. 1/6/26: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wed. 1/7/26: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Thurs. 1/8/26: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Thank you for trusting me with your care, it’s truly is a privilege to serve each of you. I look forward to helping you start 2026 with comfort, confidence, and a healthy beautiful smile.

Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
(952) 942-9600

https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/

11/17/2025

As we head into the season of big meals, busy schedules, and family gatherings, I want to help you enjoy the holidays without triggering unnecessary TMJ pain. This time of year is wonderful, but it can also bring out some sneaky jaw stressors. Let’s avoid them together!

TMJ-Friendly Holiday Foods 🦃🥧
You can absolutely enjoy the feast, just choose jaw-friendly favorites:
• Soft dark-meat turkey
• Mashed potatoes & gravy
• Stuffing, cooked veggies, sweet potatoes
• Pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce
• Mac & cheese, deviled eggs, smoked salmon

Your jaw will thank you later! 😄

TMJ Triggers at Holiday Gatherings:
Holiday events can be tough on your jaw. Between travel stress, marathon meal-prepping, long conversations, and tougher holiday foods, your TMJ can feel the impact. A few smart choices can make a HUGE difference:
⭐ Take breaks from long conversations—give your jaw time to relax.
⭐ Be mindful of tension—shoulders down, deep breaths, unclench the teeth.
⭐ Skip the hard-to-chew items and choose soft, tender foods when possible.
⭐ Plan ahead when traveling—neck pillow, warm compresses, TMJ-friendly snacks.

If You’re Already in Pain… I’m Here for You!
TMJ pain can quickly take the joy out of the season. If you’re struggling, please don’t push through it alone. Helping patients find relief from TMJ disorder is one of the most meaningful parts of my practice, and I’d be honored to help you feel better before the year ends.

🎁 $150 TMJ Consultation Special (Limited Spots)
To make care more accessible during this busy season, I’m offering a $150 TMJ Consultation, a great opportunity to get real answers and a personalized plan for relief. (Spots fill fast this time of year – call for details!)

Prioritize Your Comfort: If TMJ pain is interfering with your holiday plans, now is the time to take action. I’m here to help you enjoy a more comfortable and joyful holiday season. Let’s work together to ease your pain and set you on the path to a healthier, pain-free life.

Call Today to Schedule Your TMJ Appointment—Limited Spots Available Before Year-End! (952) 942-9600.

Wishing you comfort, calm, and a happy holiday season filled with laughter, not jaw pain.

Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS

Learn more about my TMJ services: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/dental-services/tmj-tmd-overview/

Did you know Dental Veneers can help TMJ? https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/tmj-health-tmd/dental-veneers-and-tmj-a-life-changing-solution/

Learn more about my approach to TMJ: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/about/meet-dr-mike/

10/13/2025

🍂 Fall Into Comfort & Confidence with a Healthier Smile! 🍁
Hi, I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS, and as the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to refresh your smile and focus on your overall wellness! My team and I are here for you, dedicated, compassionate, and always ready to help you feel your best. 😁🍂

Our hygienists are available and excited to help you achieve your healthiest smile. We’re accepting new patients and can get you in promptly, whether you’re due for your fall cleaning or looking for something more specialized, we’d be honored to be your trusted dental team. 💛

At my Eden Prairie, MN practice, we provide comprehensive holistic & biologic health-centered dentistry, combining advanced science with heartfelt care:

🌀 TMJ/TMD Therapy & Facial Pain Relief
TMJ care is one of my greatest passions, it’s life-changing dentistry that helps people live pain-free and rediscover the joy of everyday life. Check out my story and how my journey began: https://youtu.be/pfMUVDKg2ZY

🌿 BioRejuvenation Dentistry
Learn about the biology behind your smile and how we restore natural function and harmony: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/dental-services/biorejuvenation-dentistry/

✨ Cosmetic Dentistry
From one-day smile makeovers to veneers and whitening, we love helping patients shine: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/news-events/beautiful-same-day-smile-makeover/

🦷 Certified Invisalign® Provider
Straighten your smile with a trusted Invisalign plan made just for you: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/tmj-health-tmd/certified-invisalign-provider-lets-get-started/

💫 General & Family Dentistry offered in holistically inclined ways to empower your oral and overall wellness.

💫 Dental Implants, Restorative Dentistry, Periodontal Care, and Senior Dentistry, all with a gentle, biologic approach.

We’re proud to welcome new patients from Eden Prairie and surrounding communities including Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, and Plymouth, and surrounding areas.

🍁 As we head into this new season, let’s make your oral health a priority, because a confident smile and a pain-free life never go out of season!

Warmly,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS

Check out our 5-Star Google Reviews: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/reviews/

Call (952) 942-9600

09/22/2025

Dental Veneers & TMJ: A Life-Changing Solution ✨
Hello, I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, and I feel truly humbled and grateful every day 🙏 to practice a kind of dentistry that doesn’t just restore smiles, it transforms lives. One of the ways I’ve been able to do this is through the use of dental veneers, especially composite veneers, in helping patients with TMJ disorder.

Most people think veneers are only for cosmetic purposes, but in truth, they can play a critical role in restoring the shape and function of teeth when treating TMJ. A “bad bite,” or malocclusion, often contributes to TMJ symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, or teeth grinding. By restoring the teeth to their proper form, veneers can help create harmony in the bite ⚖️, which relieves stress on the joints and muscles.

For over 10 years, I’ve used composite veneers as a conservative and affordable option for patients. When the jaw is stable, these veneers can last for years while also giving patients a natural, healthy smile 😁. Of course, I still offer porcelain veneers for those who prefer them, but I’m grateful to be able to provide composite veneers as an option that balances beauty, function, and affordability.

My Journey in TMJ Care
For more than 25 years, I’ve dedicated myself to studying and treating TMJ Disorder, a condition that affects nearly 10 million Americans. It’s a misunderstood problem, often misdiagnosed, yet it causes tremendous suffering. My journey has taken me through extensive training with respected leaders in dentistry, from the Dawson Center to the OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry, where I completed Level 3 Bioesthetic Treatment.

The guiding principles of Bioesthetic dentistry, stabilizing the jaw joint, ensuring proper guidance of the front teeth, and restoring teeth to their biologic form, have shaped the way I care for patients. It’s been a privilege to witness hundreds of individuals find relief after years of pain. Each story reminds me how impactful this work is and how fortunate I am to serve in this way.

Treatment That Restores More Than Teeth
When patients first come to me, many are exhausted from chronic pain, worn or fractured teeth, or years of clenching and grinding. The first step is often stabilizing the bite with MAGO Therapy, a non-invasive oral appliance approach. Once the jaw is stable, we can restore teeth with veneers to rebuild proper form and function.

Composite veneers are not only functional but also carry many benefits:
✅ More conservative than porcelain
✅ Lower cost and faster treatment
✅ Natural looking and versatile
✅ Durable and protective against further wear

The best part? Patients not only regain proper function but also enjoy a brighter, healthier smile 🌟.

It’s deeply moving to see how their confidence and quality of life improve along with their dental health.

A Grateful Calling
Dentistry, for me, has never been just about fixing teeth, it’s about restoring health, comfort, and hope 💙.

I’m humbled by the trust patients place in me and grateful to be part of their journey toward healing. Helping people smile again without pain is one of the greatest privileges of my life.

For more information on TMJ, our diagnosis process and treatment plan, please contact my office at 952-942-9600.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
Level 3 Graduate, OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry

Check out my patient's success stories – videos: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/testimonials/

Learn more about me: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/.../meet-dr-mike/

08/04/2025

🦷 Struggling with TMJ Pain? Let’s Talk. 💬
Hi, I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS and for over 30 years, I’ve had the honor of helping patients find relief from TMJ disorder and the pain that comes with it.

TMJ is complex, and no two cases are the same. That’s why I’ve created a dedicated one-hour TMJ Consultation for $150, an opportunity for you to sit down with me, one-on-one, and finally be heard. No rush, no pressure - just a compassionate conversation customized to you. 💙

During this time, I’ll review your symptoms, answer questions, explore proven treatment options and help you understand your condition with clarity and care. If you’ve seen other providers or are seeking a second opinion, this consultation may be the missing piece in your journey toward relief.

My training and passion for TMJ care go deep. I’ve spent decades immersed in continuing education, including advanced training with the OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry, where I am a proud Level 3 graduate. OBI is a global leader in biologic, minimally invasive dentistry focused on restoring harmony to the chewing system using nature’s design. 🌿

This journey began when I saw how often patients were being passed around without real answers, often dismissed with a bite guard and told to “wait it out.” I knew there had to be more, and today I am humbled to say I’ve been part of hundreds of success stories, helping people restore their lives, function, and joy.

❤️ You can read many of these testimonials on our Google reviews or view video stories on my website. I am deeply grateful to each patient who has trusted me with this intimate part of their life, and for sharing their healing journey to help others find hope.
If you’ve been living in pain, wondering if anyone truly understands what you're going through, please know you’re not alone, and you deserve answers.

👉 Schedule your $150 TMJ Consultation today. It’s time to take the first step toward healing and hope. For more information on TMJ, our diagnosis process and treatment plan, please contact my office at 952-942-9600.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
Level 3 Graduate, OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry

Check out my patient's success stories – videos: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/testimonials/

Learn more about me: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/about/meet-dr-mike/

07/15/2025

If you’re like most people you probably enjoy having a couple snacks each day in between meals. The human body needs food about every three or four hours to maintain optimal functionality. This is why we start to get hungry during the time between lunch and dinner.

Most people have a tendency to snack on items like chips, nuts, and granola bars because they’re convenient. However, if you have TMJ Disorder, snacks like these can be bad for your health. Hard, crunchy, and chewy snacks cause the jaw to work harder and can result in TMJ pain.

Fortunately, there are still many healthy foods you can enjoy that won’t impact your TMJ health. Below, I’ve listed some refreshing summer snacks that individuals with TMD can enjoy worry-free.

TMJ-Friendly Snacks for Summertime:
Just because you have TMD doesn’t mean you have to go hungry in between meals. Stay energized, healthy, and happy with these nutritious TMJ-friendly summertime snacks!

Enjoy Some Delicious Grilled Vegetables:
Fruits and vegetables are light, healthy, and packed with nutrients, which makes them great summertime snacks. However, if you have TMJ Disorder, you may want to avoid eating certain items like carrots, apples, and celery in their raw form. Instead, try grilling your veggies to soften them up. They’ll taste just as good, but will put significantly less strain on your jaw.

Cottage Cheese is a favorite TMJ-friendly protein snack for my Eden Prairie patients:
If you’re feeling low on energy, you may feel tempted to grab a protein bar as a quick snack. But think about how hard your jaw muscles are going to have to work to break down its super chewy texture. You may want to rethink your choice of protein. As an alternative, you could eat cottage cheese instead. Cottage cheese is high in protein, low in sugar, and is fairly soft. This makes it a great TMJ-friendly snack.

Fresh Juices & Smoothies, Great for you and Fun for your Kids and Grandkids:
What could possibly be more refreshing on a hot summer day than a delicious fruit smoothie?! Smoothies are a great snack if you have TMJ because you can enjoy all your favorite fruits without having to worry about them putting stress on your jaw or chewing muscles. You can even toss in some veggies if you’d like! Or, opt for a green smoothie made from spinach, kale, and other leafy greens. You can make it a fun activity for your kids or grandkids and let them choose all their ingredients and learn about healthy fruits and vegetables and how mixing them is delicious.

Foods High in Potassium are really good for your chewing muscles!
Did you know that potassium helps regulate muscle contractions in your body? That’s why soft foods that are high in potassium are an excellent option for people with TMJ Disorder. Snacks like bananas and cooked sweet potatoes can provide the extra potassium that TMJ sufferers need to keep their chewing muscles healthy.

Caffeine-Free Drinks:
Many people drink beverages like iced coffee and tea during the summer in an effort to stay cool. However, if you have TMD, you should avoid beverages that are high in caffeine. These drinks are notorious for causing teeth grinding and jaw pain. Instead, opt for something caffeine-free like herbal tea, lemonade, or flavored water to quench your thirst.

Get More Tips & Advice on TMJ Health:
If you would like more information on TMD-friendly snacks or TMJ health in general, please do not hesitate to give me a call! My team and I are always happy to chat with our patients and provide answers to dental-health related questions.

https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/.../tmj-tmd.../

Get Help for TMJ Disorder Today at Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center:
Do you have questions about whether or not you truly have a TMJ disorder? Have you been given an accurate diagnosis? My team and I are here to help. For more information on TMJ, our diagnosis process and treatment plan, please contact my office at 952-942-9600 for a consultation.

When you visit my office for your TMJ health exam, I will take every measure possible to ensure an accurate diagnosis. This includes thoroughly examining your mouth, bite, and jaw in order to gain a proper understanding of your condition. Then, after reviewing your medical history and symptoms, I will create a custom treatment plan based on your needs to get you back to enjoying life to its fullest again.

Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/

06/05/2025

😁 Life’s Better with Straight, Healthy Teeth — Let’s Get Started!
Hi friends! I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS — and since 1987, it’s been my privilege to care for smiles in the Eden Prairie, MN area. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping patients achieve straighter, healthier teeth using Invisalign Clear Aligners.

I’m a certified Invisalign provider, and I take great pride in designing custom treatment plans that not only enhance how your smile looks, but how it functions — for life! 💪

Why Invisalign?
Straight teeth aren’t just a cosmetic goal — they’re part of your overall health. When your teeth are aligned properly, they’re easier to clean, less prone to damage, and support a better bite and jaw function. ✅ That’s why I often recommend Invisalign as part of a long-term dental wellness plan.

Invisalign uses a series of clear, comfortable aligners that gently move your teeth into place. Most patients complete their treatment in 6–12 months, and the best part? The aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed to eat, brush, and enjoy your favorite foods. 😋

Invisalign Benefits Include:
✔️ Virtually invisible aligners
✔️ Easier brushing & flossing
✔️ Fewer dental issues over time
✔️ Less jaw and neck discomfort
✔️ No food restrictions
✔️ More comfort than metal braces

Whether you’re a teen, busy professional, or just ready to finally prioritize you, now’s a perfect time. We have summer appointments available so you can start your Invisalign journey before fall — and enjoy your progress all season long! ☀️🦷

A Simple, Supportive Process:
Your journey starts with a consultation here in our Eden Prairie office. I’ll assess your smile, take impressions, and map out your step-by-step treatment plan. My caring team will be with you each step of the way — making the process simple, smooth, and completely personalized.

As always, I’m incredibly grateful for the trust my patients place in me and my team. It’s an honor to serve our community and help people feel more confident when they smile. 😊

If you’ve been curious about straightening your teeth — now’s the time. Let’s talk about Invisalign and what it could do for your health and your confidence.

👉 Call us to schedule your consultation. We welcome patients from Eden Prairie and beyond — and we’d love to welcome you next!

— Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
Your Certified Invisalign Provider

https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/dental-services/invisalign/

Learn more about my credentials: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/about/meet-dr-mike/

05/09/2025

10 BEST SELF CARE TIPS FOR TMJ FACIAL PAIN:
Hello, I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS and I’d like to share some information about selfcare tips if you or someone you care about has TMJ. At my dental practice in Eden Prairie, MN, I specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ Disorder using minimally invasive methods.

Professional treatment is the first step in obtaining relief from jaw pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. But after that, it’s up to you to implement self-care of your jaw joints so they can heal. Even after treatment, your jaw is still in a fragile state. It has endured a tremendous amount of stress and needs to be properly rested. Resting your jaw allows it to heal, stabilize, and regain functionality.

It’s important that you exercise caution in the following weeks so that your jaw and chewing system can recover. Your ability to obtain long term relief and regain optimal dental health is dependent on your jaw’s ability to heal.

The following TMJ self-care tips can help you along the path to recovery. Taking good care of your jaw will help it heal properly so that you can experience lasting TMJ pain relief.

1. Allow your jaw to rest and relax: Resting your jaw after treatment is vital to your recovery. When your jaw is allowed to rest, your chewing muscles relax, taking stress off your TMJs (jaw joints). This way, your jaw joints can heal and your chewing system can regain stability.

2. Avoid straining or overworking your jaw: Try to keep your jaw joints and muscles from working too hard. Avoid sticking out your jaw, applying pressure, or opening your mouth too wide. At night, try sleeping on your back instead of your side or stomach to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on your jaw. When flossing or brushing your teeth, eating, or yawning, avoid opening your mouth any wider than necessary. Don’t stick out your jaw to inspect your teeth, put on lip balm, or apply makeup.

3. Avoid hard and crunchy foods. When I have a patient that is dealing with or recovering from TMD, I always advise them to stick to a soft food diet. Soft foods like yogurt, rice, pasta, beans, eggs, and cooked vegetables do not put as much strain on the jaw as hard, crunchy foods. Avoid eating foods like nuts, potato chips, and raw, uncooked carrots or broccoli. Whenever possible, try to avoid biting into foods with your front teeth. Instead, use a fork and knife to cut your food into pieces. Then, use your back teeth to chew.

4. Make a habit of keeping your teeth apart: Try to make a habit of keeping a small space between your teeth. A good mantra is “lips together, teeth apart.” The only time your teeth should come together is when you’re eating. Try to be conscious of jaw clenching. Whenever you notice you are clenching your jaw, make a point to consciously relax your jaw and create a space between your teeth.

5. Sit up straight and practice good posture: Slouching and poor posture also put unnecessary strain on your jaw. Try to make a habit of maintaining good posture and spinal alignment when you’re standing, sitting, and lying down. Doing this will help relax your jaw and facial muscles.

6. Use heat and massages to relax muscles and reduce pain: Whenever you have a TMJ flare-up and pain returns, try using heat and massage to subdue your symptoms. Massage stimulates blood flow which aids in healing. Applying moist heat can help reduce inflammation and allow your muscles to relax.

7. Moist heat should be applied twice daily: Moist heat applications should be used two times each day for intervals of half an hour. Try putting a damp washcloth in the microwave, then applying it to the affected area. Apply for ten minutes, remove and wait five minutes, and then reapply to start the process over again. This process should be completed for a total of three times.

8. Massage the area gently when pain occurs: Gentle massages can help soothe spasming muscles and reduce pain. Apply low to moderate pressure in a kneading motion over the affected area.

9. Take medication when necessary: If you were prescribed medication as part of your treatment plan, it’s important that you follow the instructions and take it as directed. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can also help with pain. Examples of these medications include ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. If you must avoid these medications for health reasons, take acetaminophen instead. Acetaminophen can be taken once every 4-6 hours as needed.

10. Wear a mouthguard at night: If you were prescribed a mouthguard, it’s important that you wear it as directed. For most people, teeth grinding and clenching worsens at night. Wearing a mouthguard while you sleep can help your jaw muscles relax and prevent teeth grinding.

PLEASE REACH OUT FOR HELP FOR YOUR TMJ DISORDER:
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that you believe may be related to TMJ Disorder, please reach out for professional help as soon as possible to a TMJ specialist in your area. If you are in the Eden Prairie, Minnesota area or willing to travel to my location, I would certainly be happy to meet with you and discuss your concerns in detail, call (952) 942-9600. I believe that by working together, we can find a solution to the issues you are experiencing and help you get back on track with your health and enjoying life again!

Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS

https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/

Address

11800 Singletree Lane, Ste 208
Eden Prairie, MN
55344

Opening Hours

Monday	7am - 4pm
Tuesday	7am - 6pm
Wednesday	7am - 3pm
Thursday	7am - 4pm

Website

http://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/

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Our Story

Led by Dr. Mike, the team at Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center is proud to offer you the highest quality health-centered dentistry. We accomplish this by working closely with you, the patient, through education and co-discovery of your dental health. Our methods used to free patients from TMJ and facial pain and rejuvenate the smile have proven effective, successful and rewarding as we are able to offer not only a solution to the problem, but long-term relief as well.

We maintain a practice founded on the core values of Dr. Mike Gallagher, and value the relationships we build without patients. Trust, honesty, comfort and high quality care are of the utmost importance to us-which is why we strive to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques in order to deliver the best care possible. We invite you to join our practice and experience all that we have to offer.