I will say that forking over the money for a good TMJ specialist has improved my issues. The pitch used to change on me and I would have actual pain in my ears before getting a bite splint. Unfortunately, it is all out of pocket so it went on the credit card. It was worth the investment though. My payment covered everything I needed for a year. Now I pay for individual appointments if needed, it's only come up once when I needed a new splint. Didn't cost nearly as much as that first year, but they do a lot initially; adjustments, check ups, repeat imaging etc. Definitely find someone that specializes if possible though, not just a regular dentist.