The goal of TMJ treatment is to decrease pain, reduce adverse pressure or “loading” on the jaw joints and restore normal function of the jaw. This is best accomplished by identifying all contributing factors and implementing a well-defined management program.

TMJ treatment is a complex issue because the condition affects multiple muscles and structures in your head and neck. It is important to identify the cause of your symptoms and seek help from a doctor, dentist or orofacial pain expert. Symptoms include pain in the chewing muscles and jaw joint, limited movement of the jaw or locking of the jaw, clicking, popping or grating sounds when opening and closing the mouth, ringing in the ears, headaches, dizziness or vision problems.

TMJ Treatment Options: Alleviating Jaw Pain and Discomfort

Minor TMJ symptoms may not require treatment at all and usually resolve on their own. However, if you experience severe symptoms that affect your ability to chew, talk or eat, or have unrelenting chronic pain, you should consider treatment. Your doctor will examine your jaw joint and the surrounding muscles for abnormalities. They will also record your bite and check the mobility of your teeth. Stress, clenching of the teeth (bruxism), improper dental work or arthritis can all aggravate TMJ.

You might be given pain-relieving medications, splints, or injections. Medications might include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, available over the counter or by prescription. If the inflammation and pain continue, your doctor might prescribe muscle relaxers to relieve spasms in the jaw muscles. In some cases, your doctor might inject the jaw joint with a lubricating substance or with an adhesion-removing procedure called arthrocentesis or arthroscopic TMJ surgery. Surgery is typically only considered when simpler methods of treatment have failed to improve your symptoms.