How Long Does TMJ Last
At Vista Family Dentistry in Waukesha, WI, we help treat patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ is a condition that affects the movement of your jaw and can cause significant pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it. While there’s no definitive answer on how long TMJ lasts, understanding what causes the condition, proper treatment options, and self-care practices can help alleviate the symptoms.
What is TMJ
TMJ is the acronym for temporomandibular joint disorder, which affects the jaw joint. It’s caused by inflammation in the area surrounding the joint or damage to its bones or ligaments. When this happens, it can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the jaw. Other common TMJ symptoms include headaches, facial pain, difficulty opening and closing your mouth, earache, ringing in the ears, neck pain, and clicking or popping noises when moving your jaw.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Jaw pain
Jaw pain is one of the prevailing signs associated with TMJ disorder. It can be located in various areas of your jaw, including your temples and cheeks, and feels pressure or tightness on either side of your face.
Difficulty Opening and Closing Your Mouth
You may find it difficult to open or close your mouth if you have a TMJ disorder. Your jaw may also lock in place when eating or speaking, making it difficult to move properly.
Headaches and Facial Pain
Headaches and facial pain can also be caused by TMJ disorder. These pains often come on suddenly and can radiate from the back of your head to the front.
Ringing in the Ears or Earache
Ringing in the ears and earache are other common symptoms of TMJ disorder. These can be caused by a buildup of fluid behind the eardrum, disrupted blood flow to your inner ear, or even muscle tension due to TMJ.
Chronic Pain in the Neck and Shoulders
Chronic pain in the neck and shoulders may also be an indication of TMJ disorder. It typically begins as a dull ache that worsens over time and can become more severe if left untreated. Neck pain can often be caused by TMJ disorder, as it’s common for individuals to clench their teeth when experiencing jaw pain. This clenching can lead to tension in the muscles of your neck and shoulders, resulting in neck pain.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
The causes of TMJ are not always clear but can be caused by various factors such as misalignment of the teeth or jaw, injury to the jaw joint, arthritis, grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), or stress. It’s important to seek professional help if you suspect you are suffering from TMJ, and if ignored, it may cause serious consequences.
How long does TMJ persist
The duration of TMJ symptoms can vary significantly and depend on several factors, such as the severity of the condition, treatment received, and lifestyle changes. Many people find their symptoms improve within a few weeks with self-care measures such as limiting jaw activity and avoiding hard or chewy foods. However, some people may need professional help for more serious cases of TMJ to manage the condition properly.
Factors Affecting the Duration of TMJ Pain and Discomfort
The duration of TMJ pain can be affected by several factors, such as the severity of the condition, treatment received, and lifestyle changes. For instance, if your TMJ is caused by misaligned teeth or jaw trauma, then it’s likely that professional help is necessary to address the issue properly. Additionally, if you are grinding or clenching your teeth due to stress or anxiety, addressing this underlying cause is essential to finding relief from TMJ symptoms.
Common Treatments for TMJ Disorder
Medication:
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are over-the-counter medications that can reduce discomfort and swelling brought on by TMJ dysfunction.
Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy can help reduce muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders by providing exercises and stretches to target these areas.
Splints and Bite Guards:
A splint, bite guard, or mouthguard can custom-fit your mouth to reduce the strain on your jaw and alleviate pain.
Surgery:
In severe cases of TMJ disorder, surgery may be recommended to repair any damage to the joint or reposition misaligned teeth.
Stress Management:
Stress can be a major contributing factor to TMJ disorder, so addressing it can help reduce symptoms. Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress levels.
It’s important to seek professional help if you suspect you are suffering from TMJ; leaving it untreated can result in serious issues.
When to See a Dentist at Vista Family Dentistry for TMJ
If you are experiencing persistent or worsening TMJ symptoms, then it’s recommended that you seek professional help. The team at Vista Family Dentistry can provide an evaluation and treatment plan to help manage the condition and reduce pain and discomfort. We offer a variety of treatments tailored specifically to each patient to ensure successful outcomes. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find relief from TMJ pain.