Dr. Benavent sees people with Temporomandibular Disorders (aka “TMJ”), headaches, nerve pain, and "mystery" pain in their head and neck. She also works with patients that have obstructive sleep apnea to help manage their apnea with an oral appliance. This often means they no longer need to use a CPAP. She also works with people without sleep apnea that want a snoring appliance.

Dr. Benavent does offer Botox for the jaw muscles and for some nerve pain conditions, but this is generally not a first-line option.

A visit with Dr. Benavent includes a complete medical history and thorough head and neck exam. Then she will discuss your diagnosis and develop a personalized plan of treatment. Feel free to ask questions during your visit.


Dr. Benavent is an excellent dentist and diagnostician. She identified the cause of chronic nerve pain on my first visit and then worked diligently to find a course of treatment that has kept the pain completely at bay. I can’t say enough positive things about her and her skill set. Additionally, the office staff are always so kind and efficient. I highly recommend this practice to anyone, without reservation.
— B. C.; Savage, MD
Very organized and truly cares about her patients. She spends time making sure she addresses all your concerns and I would recommend her to anyone.
— L.F.; Olney, MD
Dr. Vanessa Benavent provides detailed explanations of my medical condition and is always patient with my questions, & shows compassion. She is very thorough and I enjoy my visits with her.
— Y. A.; Fulton, MD
Dr. Vanessa Benavent is such a warm and caring doctor—when you have an appointment with her she gives you her undivided attention and schedules sufficient time to go over all pertinent and related treatments and conditions. Best of all she really knows her stuff! She’s always up on the latest meds and treatments for migraines, TMJD, etc. Highly recommended.
— E. B.; Westminster, MD
Professional, Hands on , experience caring, she provided with a plan in the right direction. I felt lost and Dr. Benavent have given me hope and professional advice. I am very impressed and happy to have found this specialist. I am so thankful I found this dentist.
— T. T.; Baltimore, MD
A very thoughtful and thorough healthcare practitioner.
— J. F.; Laurel, MD
Dr. Benavent is knowledgeable, conscientious, patient, and very kind. Her treatment has made a big difference in the quality of my life. I am so happy that I am one of her patients. Dr. Benavent’s staff is also excellent.
— S. L.; Vienna, VA
My visit to Dr Benavent’s office was a very pleasant experience. A clean comfortable and friendly setting with kind professional people who guided my visit with their assistance and smiles. This was my third visit and as usual Dr Benavent was very understanding. caring and thorough throughout my session. The 23 mile drive from Baltimore to Clarksville was worth it to maintain my relationship with Dr Benavent. Thank you and your staff for their kind service and professionalism.
— M. S.; Baltimore, MD
Dr. Benavent is amazing! She is incredibly knowledgeable, thoughtful, and caring. She helped to assemble a full team of amazing experts to help me heal. I am so grateful for her constant support and treatment. I highly, highly recommend!
— L. R.; Silver Spring, MD
I am so grateful that Dr. Vanessa Benavent practices in the DMV area. She was the only professional who not only took my TMJ pain seriously, but also had the very niche training and expertise necessary to diagnose TMJ-related disorders. An added bonus is that she is a truly kind and compassionate person who cares about her patients. I could not recommend Dr. Benavent and her practice enough.
— N. A.; Centreville, VA
I can’t really express just how thankful I am that I found Dr. Benavent. For 2 1/2 years I had intermittent pain that began with a dental procedure. She was kind & gentle at that first appointment, told me that I have 2 issues, recommended treatment and within a few days I had relief. Her staff is always helpful, relaying questions & answer between the doctor & me. The scheduling is easy & timely. It’s all good!!
— A. F.
Dr. Benavent is the best doctor ever! She is the most thorough and positive person I’ve ever met. She goes through all your history and any and all current or past ailments. We discussed past medications and how to keep up with future medications. We talked about different ways to maintain the positive outcome of different venues as to not have them reoccur.
— J. C.; Severna Park, MD
I’ve never had a doctor as thorough as Dr. Benavent. She took notes on everything & was truly interested in all symptoms. She is also truly delightful.
— V. S.
Frustrated after seeing a range of specialists over the years and experiencing chronic pain that definitely impacted my quality of life, I was referred to Dr. Benavent by a compassionate surgeon. Dr. Benavent took all the time I needed to understand and develop a customized strategy to improve my situation. She really listens! She developed a multi-pronged plan that enabled me to experience rapid and lasting relief, and develop skills to cut periodic episodes off at the pass. She always gives as much time as I need. I never feel rushed and I know she’s only a quick call away if needed — a personalized highly-effective experience. Highly recommend for relief of chronic orofacial pain.
— K. P.; Hampstead, MD
Coming to Dr. Benavent literally changed my life. I’m no longer in pain, and I’m back to living my daily life. I used to worry about what I could eat without having symptoms, but now I don’t.
— S. G.
When I first saw Dr. Benavent, I was in so much pain it was debilitating. I was finishing my first book but could barely even sit up or move, let alone work at the computer. No one else seemed to be able to help me. I’ve never had a doctor spend so much time asking questions and truly listening to the answers. Five months later, I am completely better, my book is being printed, and I have the tools to prevent my pain from coming back. I am extremely grateful. Dr. B. saved my year and led me on a path to a healthier life. :)
— N. L.
Dr. Benavent is incredibly thorough with both her examination and her recommendations. Shortly after my first visit I experienced a 90% improvement in my pain symptoms! While I am largely pain free I still have a ways to go to improve but I know that I am in good hands and will surely get there.
— L. B.
After nearly a year dealing with TMJ issues, I finally found Dr. Benavent. She has given me all the tools and resources I needed to go from feeling horrible to 99% on my 8-week follow-up. Dr. Benavent is compassionate, kind, thorough, & extremely knowledgeable in all facets of the field. I am grateful for her help and expertise.
— N. B.
Dr. Benavent is a caring, compassionate, and consummate professional. Following a thorough assessment of my TMJ problem, during the same appointment she conducted a needling procedure that immediately increased my range of movement. She goes above and beyond, even calling me at home to see how I was doing the night after the appointment. Also, her staff was friendly and efficient. I saw her because she has the reputation as being the best. Without a doubt, she is.
— D. M.; Odenton, MD
Dr Benavent is simply the most knowledgable, most intuitive, most sensitive, and most cool dentist I have ever met!
— D. N.; Mt Airy, MD
Dr. Benavent and her staff are the “first team.” She is absolutely the best dentist - or better yet - the dentists’ “go to” dentist when the problem is out of their league. She actually taught many of them. She is always prepared, knows all the right questions, and one of the kindest, most personable and caring persons I’ve ever met in my life. I cannot recommend her more highly and so grateful I can go to her for my problems.
— E. L.; Arnold, MD
Dr Vanessa Benavent was very thorough and answered all my questions. I have a better understanding of my condition.
— M. H.; Columbia, MD
Dr. Vanessa Benavent is extremely knowledgeable, personable, caring, and thorough. I have been seeing her for a number of years to treat my sleep apnea, and all of my experiences with her and the staff have been excellent. I highly recommend her.
— A. J.; Columbia, MD
The staff was very professional and friendly at Dr. Vanessa Benavent’s dental office. Dr. Benavent provided an excellent experience. Dr. Benavent took the time to explain the details of what my treatment plan would be. She was caring and attentive and professional. After visiting Dr. Benavent’s office I feel there is a special plan to improve my dental health. I highly recommend Dr. Benavent’s office.
— T. T.; Baltimore, MD
Most comprehensive exam I’ve ever had from any doctor.
— B. L.; Clarksville, MD
Dr. Benavent is a thorough and highly competent clinician whose professionalism is only exceeded by her courtesy and friendliness. Dr. Benavent is engaging and knowledgeable. If you are having any issues with your TMJ (Tmporal Mandibular Joint), she will explain the issue (with a plastic model) and provide a pathway for your better health.
— W. N.; Columbia, MD
This was an amazing visit. Everything from the pre-appointment paperwork, the appt. reminders, the office staff and Dr. Benavent were all top notch. I have never had a doctor show such focus, kindness and efficiency. I could not recommend Dr. Benevent’s practice more highly.
— C.; Washington, DC
Dr. Vanessa Benavent provides detailed explanations of my medical condition and is always patient with my questions, & shows compassion. She is very thorough and I enjoy my visits with her.
— Y.; Fulton, MD
I can’t thank Dr. Benavent enough for listening. I have been trying to have a doctor just listen to me for over 4 years. Just having a course of action feels so much better than not knowing.
— E. G.; Clarksburg, MD
I had migraine headaches daily prior to seeing Dr. Benavent. She would not give up until she found a treatment that completely eliminated them. I have never met such a determined physician.
— C. L.; Ellicott City, MD
I am most grateful that Dr. Adam Orgel referred me to Dr. Benavent. I had been experiencing jaw discomfort and facial pain for several months.
Dr. Benavent’s staff was so helpful with scheduling my appointment.
Dr. Benavent has an excellent knowledge in her specialty. She conducted the most thorough exam and explained her findings to me in layman’s terms.
I highly recommend Dr. Benavent.
— S. D.; Bethesda, MD
Was great. Initial appointment was very thorough and productive. Very happy with the experience and would recommend!
— R. G.; Sykesville, MD
Great experience with Dr. Benavent. She quickly diagnosed my problem and implemented steps that resulted in alleviating my pain. The office staff were always pleasant, personable and professional. Dr. Benavent was great. Her bedside manner excellent.
— T. M.; Laurel, MD
I came to see Dr. Benavent for TMJ thinking I was going to need surgery for my locking jaw. She spent a lot of time with me during our consult and was so thorough she looked at “the whole me.” I learned my posture and even my sleeping position had an effect on my jaw issues. I loved her conservative approach to correcting my TMJ. With PT and just a few changes to my daily habits I am now pain free with no more locking jaw...and no surgery!! I highly recommend Dr. Benavent. You will love her very professional and friendly office staff who will make you feel like family. Even though it might take some time to get an initial appointment, Dr. Benavent is well worth the wait!
— E. D.
Dr. V. Benavent was the consummate professional in dealing with my jaw pain diagnosis & treatment. Her level of knowledge, thoroughness and proactivity were that of a true leader in her profession. I akin the experience to meeting with a top-level doctor at a renowned center ie.: Johns Hopkins, etc. Dr. Benavent’s bedside manner was welcoming and her explanations and reasoning were communicated thoroughly and clearly. I highly recommend her as the top source for jaw pain diagnosis/treatment and feel secure in her qualifications. I’m lucky to have found her.
— C. P.
I first met Dr. Vanessa Benavent in really severe TMJ induced jaw pain. She really listened to all of my symptoms and was very thorough with diagnosis and treatment. Because of her I am now pain free. I would highly recommend Dr. Benavent!
— J. M.
Dr. Benavent is knowledgeable, compassionate and kind, and so incredibly thorough with her examinations and treatment. Highly recommend her for TMD/TMJ concerns!
— S. S.; Glenwood, MD
Dr Vanessa found what I was suffering from for the last 20 years. She got a perfect diagnosis to locate Cluster Headaches and provided an appropriate medicine to calm 95% down my pain. I definitively recommend her.
— H. N.; Gaithersburg, MD
Dr Vanessa is extremely knowledgeable, and she listens well. She gave me many good tips for dealing with the issues that brought me to her office. I appreciated her suggestions, and I look forward to getting past some of the discomfort I’ve been experiencing.
— L. L.; Columbia, MD
My visit to Dr Benavent’s office was a very pleasant experience. A clean comfortable and friendly setting with kind professional people who guided my visit with their assistance and smiles. This was my third visit and as usual Dr Benavent was very understanding. caring and thorough throughout my session. The 23 mile drive from Baltimore to Clarksville was worth it to maintain my relationship with Dr Benavent. Thank you and your staff for their kind service and professionalism.
— M. S.; Baltimore, MD
Excellent and thorough exam.
— E. B.; Laurel, MD
Dr. Benavent has been helping me with bad case of TMJ and has shown great concern and a huge amount of help navigating throughout this. I know I am in for a long haul with this but I feel she is truly in my corner.
— P. M.; Middletown, MD
I was at my wit’s end when I found Dr. Benavent. I had almost constant low level pain in my left jaw. She found the root of my problem and started me on meds that helped almost immediately. She has been so compassion and kind and I am so grateful.
— A. F.; Mayo, MD
I have had such a wonderful experience with Dr. Benavent. It is so nice to have a doctor take the time to listen & care for her patients without feeling rushed. She has truly been a blessing. I highly recommend this office and Dr. Benavent!
— L. R.; Laurel, MD
I would highly recommend Dr. Vanessa Benavent as she is an excellent diagnostician with a wonderful chair side manner and is the very definition of thorough. I’ve never had such a comprehensive checkup in a dental chair before! She did what 4 other dental providers couldn’t. I suffered for 3 years with unresolved tooth pain & endured unnecessary dental procedures before getting into the proper hands of Dr. V. Benavent. She accurately diagnosed my TMJ problem and prescribed a non-aggressive treatment plan that had me pain free and chewing food again in less than 3 months. I will be forever grateful for her excellent care.
— B. D.; Ellicott City, MD
I came to Dr. Benavent because of chronic dental pain. Upon meeting her the first visit she was very friendly and welcoming as was her staff. During my visit she took the time to talk with me about my history and the pain I was having. I never felt rushed when I met with her. She created a plan to help heal my pain and now I am pain free. I can say that after being her patient I’m happier, life is better because I’m pain free. I am grateful to Dr. Benavent for helping me. I would recommend her to anyone that is having chronic dental pain as I did.
— A. V.
Dr. Benavent provided a treatment plan that addressed the multifaceted painful facial pain symptoms I’ve endured for 2 years. Within 3 months, I’ve improved greatly and now have hope of being back to normal and am enjoying life with little pain.
— B. F.
Dr. Benavent was simply wonderful! She helped me identify the right diagnosis and best treatment for my burning mouth. I highly recommend her.
— R. D.
My visit with Dr. Vanessa Benavent was extremely comforting and informative. I was immediately welcomed into the beautiful office and was given concrete advice about my TMJ. I am so grateful for this practice!
— E. H.
I had an awesome experience! Dr. Benavent was always understanding and very helpful. She would explain everything in detail so you knew exactly what was going on. She was genuinely invested in helping you feel better! It was like your dentist was also your best friend!
— S. B.
For months I was confused about what was causing the extreme pain I was having in my jaw and ear. I saw dentists, endodontists, and PCPs and no one seemed to have a straight answer for me. After one visit with Dr. Benavent, I had a diagnosis and a plan. I finally felt validated and ready to begin healing. I credit my recovery & peace of mind to this practice. I know that I have the best care possible and I am so grateful for that.
— C. S.
I went to see Dr. Benavent after suffering fourteen months of mouth and jaw pain. I had had two root canals, a cyst removed, and finally an extraction of the treated tooth. The pain persisted. My dentist recommended Dr. Benavent. She was gracious, friendly, but above all efficient and thorough. She recommended a detailed treatment plan for trigeminal nerve damage and jaw trauma. Within six to eight weeks I was on the mend. I couldn’t be more pleased with the whole process and especially with Dr. Benavent.
— L. K.
Dr. Benavent’s really kind and very easy to talk to...You’re all really helpful!
— E. K.; Crofton, MD
Awesome! Dr. Vanessa Benavent has helped me so much! She identified the cause of my jaw, neck & shoulder pain & how they were related. She is extremely knowledgeable! Very personable & thorough, highly recommended. A+
— R. H.