TMJ can often be managed effectively with a combination of treatment, lifestyle changes, and sometimes dental appliances. In most cases, symptoms can be reduced without surgery.

TMJ disorders can develop from jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), misalignment, or chronic stress. These issues put pressure on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to pain and dysfunction.

While TMJ is not directly inherited, genetic factors may play a role in predisposing individuals to joint or muscle disorders, such as arthritis or hypermobility, that can affect the jaw. Environmental and behavioral factors also contribute significantly.

TMJ Therapy

Q: What are my therapy options for TMJ?

TMJ therapy options include physical therapy, stress management, oral splints or nightguards, medications, and in some cases, Botox injections. Severe cases may require surgical intervention or joint injections.

Q: Can TMJ go away on its own?

In mild cases, TMJ symptoms may resolve without formal treatment, especially if caused by temporary stress or overuse. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a professional.

Q: Is surgery required to fix TMJ?

Surgery is usually considered a last resort when non-invasive treatments have failed. Most patients experience relief with conservative therapies and do not need surgery.

Q: How can I relieve my TMJ symptoms naturally?

Natural relief methods include applying warm or cold compresses, practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and doing gentle jaw exercises. Maintaining good posture can also help reduce jaw tension.

Q: What are the stages of TMJ?

TMJ disorders often progress in stages, from mild discomfort and clicking to persistent pain and limited jaw movement, and eventually, to potential joint damage. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent worsening symptoms.

Q: What triggers a TMJ flare up?

Flare-ups can be triggered by stress, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, poor posture, hard foods, or cold weather. Hormonal changes and lack of sleep can also contribute to increased pain.

Q: What foods to avoid with TMJ?

Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like nuts, gum, steak, and raw vegetables. Soft foods that require minimal chewing can help minimize jaw strain and discomfort.

Home » Family & General Dentistry » TMJ Therapy

TMJ disorder, also called “TMD,” temporomandibular disorder, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction, is a painful problem that some dental patients face. Fortunately, treatment can be very simple. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS can help our Cincinnati patients address their TMJ disorder and feel relief from jaw pain.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ stands for “temporomandibular joint,” which is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. The major symptoms of TMJ disorder are facial pain, neck aches, or chronic pain in this joint or the muscles that control jaw movement. TMJ disorder patients may also feel aching in or around the ears or throughout the face, difficulty chewing or pain while doing so, or locking of the jaw joint. Many patients also experience a clicking sound or grating sensation while opening their mouths or chewing.

What is TMJ Therapy?

There are several nonsurgical treatment options for TMJ.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Patients may be given over-the-counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and prescription medications such as muscle relaxants by their doctor or dentist to relieve pain and inflammation or to relax the facial muscles. Orthodontic treatment such as oral splints or mouth guards that fit over the upper and lower teeth are also available to relieve TMJ pain and jaw locking. Physical therapy with a licensed physical therapist, including exercises for the jaw muscles, heat or ice, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), are also an option for pain relief.

Lifestyle Changes

Your dentist may find that your TMJ dysfunction can be treated at-home through lifestyle changes or simple remedies. In these cases, your dentist may recommend relaxation techniques like stretches or massage for the jaw muscles or applying warm or cold compresses to the side of your face. You may also be advised to avoid sticky or chewy food or chewing gum and eat soft foods to relieve the jaw muscles. Your dentist will also recommend that you avoid gum chewing, teeth grinding, and nail-biting, which can make TMJ dysfunction worse.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical TMJ treatments and other dental procedures are sometimes the most effective options in diagnosing and treating TMJ symptoms. These involve surgery performed on the jaw joint to relieve inflammation and debris, surgery for the mandible to address TMJ indirectly, open-joint surgery to repair or replace the joint, or corticosteroid injections. A TMJ arthroscopy may also be done to diagnose your TMJ disorder.

Who is a Candidate for TMJ Therapy?

In some cases, you can relieve TMD symptoms on your own without requiring therapy. However, if symptoms persist over time or the health of your teeth, gums, or jaw is affected, your dentist may recommend TMJ therapy. If you feel persistent pain or discomfort as a result of TMJ, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

TMJ FAQs

Can TMJ be fixed?

What are my therapy options for TMJ?

How does TMJ occur?

Can TMJ go away on its own?

Is surgery required to fix TMJ?

How can I relieve my TMJ symptoms naturally?

What are the stages of TMJ?

What triggers a TMJ flare up?

Is TMJ genetic?

What foods to avoid with TMJ?

See All

Schedule an Appointment

To develop a treatment plan for your TMJ, schedule an appointment with Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS. Call our Cincinnati office at (513) 631-6600 or request an appointment online to get started.

(513) 631-6600

Book Online