TMJ Treatment

TMJ disorder can be diagnosed by using a combination of diagnostic methods. Most often, you’ll need a physical examination to find any tenderness, clicking or popping sounds, or limited mobility of the jaw. Your dentist will perform an in-depth review of your symptoms and understand how long you’ve been experiencing them. We may also recommend x-rays, CT scans, or a bite analysis to identify the root cause of your pain.

It’s important to acknowledge that pain is not normal, and TMJ issues typically don’t get better on their own. Before things get worse, contact South Hills Dental Arts for a consultation and get back to a functional, pain-free life.

Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly known as TMJ, is a condition that affects the joint connecting your jaw to your skull. It can cause a range of symptoms, from jaw pain and difficulty chewing to headaches and earaches. The question of whether TMJ will go away on its own is a common one, but the answer isn’t straightforward.

Some cases of TMJ can improve without treatment, especially if they’re caused by temporary factors like stress or a minor injury. However, for many people, TMJ is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. It’s also worth noting that even if your symptoms do improve on their own, they may return if the underlying cause of your TMJ isn’t addressed.

Managing TMJ pain often involves a combination of at-home remedies and professional treatment. At home, you can try things like eating soft foods, using heat or cold packs on your jaw, and practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be helpful.

In terms of professional treatment, there are several options available. Physical therapy can be beneficial for many people with TMJ, as it can help to improve jaw function and reduce pain. Dental treatments like bite guards or orthodontics can also be effective, especially if your TMJ is caused by issues with your bite or jaw alignment.

In some cases, more invasive treatments like surgery may be necessary. However, these are usually considered as a last resort, and most people with TMJ can manage their symptoms effectively with less invasive treatments.

If left untreated, TMJ can lead to a number of complications. The most immediate of these is likely to be an increase in your symptoms. You may find that your jaw pain becomes more severe, or that you start to experience additional symptoms like headaches, earaches, or difficulty chewing.

Over time, untreated TMJ can also lead to more serious issues. It can cause permanent damage to your jaw joint, which can result in chronic pain and potentially even affect your ability to open and close your jaw. It can also lead to issues with your teeth, as the increased pressure on your jaw can cause them to become worn or damaged.

In addition, untreated TMJ can have a significant impact on your quality of life. It can make it difficult to eat or speak comfortably, and the constant pain can be very distressing. It can also interfere with your sleep, which can have a knock-on effect on your overall health and well-being.

In short, while it’s possible that your TMJ symptoms may improve on their own, it’s not something you should count on. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ, it’s important to seek professional help to ensure that you’re managing the condition effectively and preventing any potential complications.