Can TMJ Resolve on Its Own?

CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center Blog Can TMJ Resolve on Its Own?
Can TMJ Resolve on Its Own?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are relatively common, affecting over 11-12 million adults in the United States alone. There are 30 different conditions that can lead to TMJ problems. While some patients require medical or even surgical intervention, many cases are handled by managing the symptoms during flare-ups. 

At CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, with multiple locations in Maryland, our board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists can help figure out what is causing your TMJ pain and make recommendations on how to relieve your discomfort. 

Understanding TMJ disorders 

Your temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your lower jaw, or mandible, to either side of your skull. The bones there are known as the temporal bones, and the joint is cushioned by a small disc, which helps the mandible move smoothly as you open and close your jaw. 

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) occurs when the jaw and the surrounding area becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to chew, speak, or sleep normally. You might experience jaw locking, earaches, and even toothaches when your TMD flares up. 

Many different factors can contribute to TMJ disorders, but doctors typically diagnose them into the following three classes: 

Depending on the root cause of your issue, you might require different TMD treatment than someone else with the same symptoms. This is why it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and determine what’s causing your pain. From there, you can treat flare-ups more effectively. 

Treating TMJ-related symptoms 

Many patients find that TMJ flare-ups will often resolve on their own. You just need to give it time and avoid putting stress on your jaw. Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories can be used to relieve your symptoms, and soft foods are recommended. 

If home remedies aren’t cutting it, a doctor can help you put together a more effective treatment plan. At CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, our team will check your medical history and perform diagnostics to confirm what’s causing your TMJ pain. 

From there, we can help you find solutions that address the source of your symptoms. Your treatment plan might include: 

Whether your TMJ pain is caused by joint damage, inflamed muscles, or a headache disorder, you have options. While some severe cases of TMD require surgery or dental intervention, most can be managed through non- or minimally invasive treatments. 

Struggling through a flare-up? Avoid unnecessary suffering and find solutions with a visit to a specialist. To schedule a consultation, call CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center at 240-241-7180, or request an appointment online. Our Maryland offices are located in Hyattsville, Gaithersburg, Lanham, Dundalk, Oxon Hill, Rosedale, and Olney, and we have two offices in Baltimore.

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