ADVANCED DENTISTRY & TMJ
Complex cases deserve specialized expertise.
TMJ dysfunction, bruxism, and bite-related pain are conditions that require a level of diagnostic and clinical skill that goes well beyond general dentistry. Dr. Ireland’s prosthodontic training in occlusion — the study of how teeth meet and function — makes Ireland Restorative Dentistry one of the most qualified practices in North Georgia to treat these conditions.
THE SCIENCE OF THE BITE
When your bite is off, everything feels it.
Occlusion refers to the way your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite and chew. When that relationship is off — even slightly — the effects ripple outward: jaw muscle tension, joint inflammation, headaches, uneven tooth wear, and chronic pain that often gets misattributed to stress or other causes.
Prosthodontists receive specialized post-doctoral training in occlusion that general dentists do not. Dr. Ireland evaluates not just your teeth but the entire system — how the jaw joints move, how the muscles function, and how the bite forces distribute across every tooth.
Prosthodontic Training
Specialized occlusal analysis and bite evaluation beyond general dentistry
Comprehensive Evaluation
Jaw joints, muscles, bite position, and tooth wear assessed together
Conservative Treatment
Starting with the least invasive effective option — never more than you need
ADVANCED SERVICES
What we treat, and how.
If you have been living with jaw pain, headaches, teeth grinding, or unexplained bite issues — we can help.
TMJ / TMD Therapy
Comprehensive evaluation and treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction — bite analysis, muscle assessment, and a personalized treatment plan.
Custom Bite Splints
Custom-fitted night guards for bruxism, teeth grinding, clenching, and TMJ-related muscle tension.
Not sure if your symptoms are bite-related? Call us at 678-845-0366 — Dr. Ireland is happy to discuss your situation before you book a formal consultation.
YOUR SPECIALIST
Dr. Ireland has been treating complex bite cases for over 30 years.
She received her Certificate in Advanced Prosthodontics from the University of Alabama in 1996, went on to teach at the UA Prosthodontic Department from 1999 to 2008, and has been treating complex bite and TMJ cases in private practice ever since.
If you have seen other providers for jaw pain or bite issues without lasting relief — a prosthodontic evaluation may be the answer you have been looking for.
PATIENT STORIES
Trusted by families across Ball Ground and beyond.
4.9 stars · 232+ verified Google reviews
★★★★★
“My wife and I had our first visit at Ireland Dental. They have AMAZING staff from Amanda, Celeste, Amber, Dr. Ireland & Dr. Hewgley! Dr. Ireland & Dr. Hewgley made us feel very comfortable and explained everything — it’s like we have known them all for years!!”
Ted Fountain
Google Review · Verified Patient
★★★★★
“Dr. Ireland is absolutely fabulous!!! I am so grateful I found her. She is compassionate and absolutely excellent. I highly recommend her and her entire team! Her dental hygienist, Brooke, is also first in class. Would give 10 stars, if I could!”
Denise L.
Google Review · Verified Patient
★★★★★
“Our entire family loves the staff at Ireland Dental! The staff is fabulous, professional, kind and they truly make it an enjoyable experience. Dr. Ireland is the best! She has such a calming spirit and makes everyone feel extremely comfortable.”
Michele Champagne
Google Review · Verified Patient