Do you have pain in your jaw? Or, perhaps, your jaw pops when you open or close your mouth. These could be the signs of a temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. Many factors can lead to TMJ issues. Nevertheless, you can visit a TMJ specialist to treat the issue in an adequate manner. The question many people ask is: does TMJ go away?
You can get treatment for issues with your TMJ, but how effective are they? In this blog, we’ll explain if your jaw discomfort could be TMJ. We’ll also mention if TMJ goes away on its own and how effective the treatments are. Continue reading!
What is TMJ?
At the back of our jaws is a ball and socket hinge, and a bony bump in front of the socket keeps the jaw from slipping out of place. Sometimes, though, the bony bump, or articular eminence, allows the jaw to slip forward. However, the jaw is unable to slip back in position. Consequently, the affected individual experiences jaw pain and discomfort.
A physician might be able to push the jaw back in its place. But there’s another type of TMJ disorder: chronic TMJ. Gradually, chronic TMJ can lead to dislocated tendons, muscles, cartilage, and more. This could lead to permanent damage to the jaw.
TMJ Symptoms
When damage occurs in TMJ, it affects your jaw, eyes, ears, mouth, throat, and even forehead. Therefore, you will feel the following symptoms if you have TMJ disorder:
- Frequent or constant pain or tenderness at the TMJ site
- Pain in and around the ear
- Pain when chewing
- Jaw locks
- Pain in other areas of pain
- Popping and clicking sounds from the jaw upon movement
- Restricted jaw movement
Does TMJ Go Away With Treatment?
When you feel discomfort or pain in your jaw, visit an oral healthcare provider immediately. They will suggest TMJ treatment after diagnosing and confirming the cause. TMJ symptoms usually go away for most people, especially if the condition is minor. However, severe TMJ issues will require other treatments.
You might be dealing with a less serious form of TMJ if your jaw pain comes and goes or doesn’t bother you constantly. In this case, your TMj specialist might recommend the following tips to manage your condition:
- Reduce teeth clenching by practicing relaxation and reduction techniques
- Cold compress the affected area with the help of ice packs or other alternatives
- Switch to a soft food diet, like milkshakes, mashed potatoes, Jell-O, pasta, and more
- Refrain from making extreme jaw movements
- Try gentle jaw stretching exercises
- Over-the-counter OTC medications for pain
The above-mentioned tips are effective for minor TMJ. Severe TMJ, however, does not go away by these tips. You might be able to reduce the symptoms for some time, but you’ll need to consult an expert for treatment.
Visit a TMJ Specialist Today!
TMJ issues can lead to severe problems if not treated in time. This is why you need to visit a credible TMj specialist for treatment. They will diagnose your issue, along with the severity. This way, you can get proper treatment according to your condition. Our Pasadena Oral Surgery team has what you need for improved oral health. So, wait no more! Visit us at 6429 Fairmont Parkway Suite 102, Pasadena, Texas 77505. You can also book an appointment at (281) 299-0053.