Quick Answer:
How long do TMJ flare-ups last? A flare-up may typically last from 48 hours to several days. You can perform facial massage and control stress and anxiety to relieve a flare-up. But without treatment, TMJ flare-ups can be chronic and lengthy.
If you experience TMJ pain, you may want to know how long these flare-ups last. This blog will address what TMJ disorder is, what causes flare-ups, and how to relieve TMJ pain. Lastly, the blog will address how to treat the disorder permanently, so you don’t let the pain control your life. Let’s get started!
What are TMJ disorders?
TMJ is the temporomandibular joint present in the jaw. This joint can become inflamed and cause pain and discomfort due to several reasons. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the temporomandibular joints, jaw muscles, and nerves linked with facial pain. Any complication that negatively affects the function of jaw muscles, joints, and bones may result in TMJ disorder.
What are TMJ flare-ups?
A TMJ flare-up is the occurrence of new symptoms related to your temporomandibular joint or worsening of the existing ones. It often occurs on and off and without any warning signs.
The TMJ symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain
- Locking and clicking of the jaw
- Swelling of the face
- Decreased jaw mobility
- Headaches
- Toothaches
- Difficulty in chewing
- Ear and neck pain
Besides these symptoms, TMJ disorder can also affect daily activities, like eating, speaking, and sleeping.
How long do TMJ flare-ups last?
TMJ flare-ups can last from 48 hours to several days. The duration of a flare-up mainly depends on the person. Since each case is unique, the oral surgeon or a doctor may require to know the underlying cause and medical history. With diagnosis and treatment, you can manage the symptoms and intensity of your TMJ flare-ups.
What causes TMJ flare-ups?
Several factors contribute to a TMJ flare-up. The major factors for severe cases include injury, deterioration from arthritis, and jaw disc or joint erosion. Some other factors include:
- Posture
- Stress
- Hormone levels
- Dehydration
- Chewing hard food
- Vitamin deficiencies
How to relieve TMJ pain?
If you are experiencing TMJ flare-up, do the following to relieve pain and discomfort.
- Apply heat or do a cold compress to the affected area
- Avoid hard foods and maintain a soft food diet
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- Perform relaxing techniques to help ease your facial muscles
- Massage your jaw for better blood flow regulation and healing
How are TMJ disorders treated?
TMJ issues can be treated in two phases:
1. Orthotic Treatment
During the first phase of the treatment, you need to wear a TMJ appliance such as a mouthguard to align the jaw correctly.
2. Neuromuscular Orthodontics
The second phase of the treatment involves a custom mouth rehabilitation plan using multiple cosmetic and restorative services. The goal is to help your jaw align on its own. You can visit Pasadena Oral Surgery for TMJ disorder treatment. Our surgeons will diagnose and help determine which treatment is best for you.
Control your TMJ Flare-ups!
If you experience TMJ flare-up, please visit . Or you can call us today at (281)-299-0053 to schedule an appointment.