How Long Does TMJ Last? A Guide to TMDs

July 26, 2023

How long does TMJ last? Does it come and go, or is it a lifelong condition? Learn more about it and what your treatment options are here.

The pain in your jaw is excruciating. Initially, you thought it was something momentary, but it's lingered for days.

You've had enough. You want to know how long does TMJ last.

It only makes sense to ask. After all, if it persists much longer, it could damage your employment, your family life, and even your mental health.

Let's examine TMJ pain so you'll know what to expect and what to do to get relief as soon as possible.

What Is TMJ?

You're not alone in wondering about your TMJ pain. Millions of Americans suffer from pain associated with the joints that operate their jaws.

TMJ is the name that most people casually use to refer to their joint pain. TMJ actually is just the name of your joint, the temporomandibular joint. If you have pain in the jaw joint, you're experiencing TMD or temporomandibular disorder. It's also known as temporomandibular dysfunction. As the name implies, it primarily affects the temporomandibular joint, once again, the TMJ. The pain will also affect the ligaments and muscles responsible for moving the jaw.

There are three primary types of TMDs. There are disorders that affect the jaw joints, those that affect the muscles necessary for chewing, and headaches caused by TMD.

How Long Does TMJ Last Without Medical Assistance?

The TMJ is on either side of your jaw, connecting the jawbone to the skull. Place your index fingers on either side of your face, just in front of the middle of your ears. Now open and close your jaw. You should feel the two joints in action.

Under normal conditions, you're unlikely to feel any discomfort by opening and closing your jaw. That means the TMJ is staying in its correct position, in the socket. The pain you experience is the result of the TMJ sliding forward or popping out of its socket.

TMJ pain can be a short-term TMD flare-up or a long-term problem. It depends on the root cause.

It can fade away in a couple of weeks without TMD treatment if the underlying condition isn't serious. On the other hand, if the cause is severe, the pain can continue for years if there's no intervention.

What Are the Causes of TMD?

Many people are struck with TMD without a definitive reason. But in other cases, there may be more clear-cut causes.

For example, some people unconsciously grind their teeth. Sometimes this is due to intense stress. At other times, it may be the result of misaligned teeth. In other words, the top and bottom teeth don't meet at the proper angle.

An injured jaw can also trigger the onset of TMJ issues. Arthritis, which most people associate with knees and hands, is another possible cause of TMJ discomfort.

What Are the Symptoms of a TMJ Problem?

The most prominent symptom of a TMJ problem is a painful jaw. The intensity can vary from person to person.

And it can differ from day to day and hour to hour. The jaw pain may spread, affecting everything from the ears to the neck and shoulders.

There's often a clicking noise when you move the jaw. Some people report hearing their jaw make a popping sound.

But clicking and popping alone aren't reasons for concern. They're normal. They only merit a trip to the dentist if the clicking or popping is painful.

Headaches are common symptoms. They can even manifest as migraines. Other symptoms include ringing in the ears and toothaches.

How Can You Aggravate Your TMJ Pain?

You can inadvertently worsen your symptoms through bad habits. For example, if you feel the need to constantly chew while working, you might spend hours each day munching on ice, chewing gum, or even biting a pencil. They may sound like innocent behaviors, but you may be overworking your jaw.

Similarly, if you tend to eat quickly, you could be setting yourself up for major TMJ issues. When you eat quickly, you generally try to chew overly large pieces of food. The larger the bite, the more work for your jaw.

Another bad habit to break is using your teeth like a Swiss Army knife. Don't rely on your teeth to remove bottle caps, undo stuck jar lids, bend wire, or anything else they're not designed to do. The few minutes you take to find the proper tool could save you days of jaw pain.

How Can You Treat TMJ Pain at Home?

Adopt behaviors that will make it easier for your jaw to heal. One of the best things you can do is to switch to soft foods. But regardless of how soft the food is, try to chew only on the less painful side of your mouth.

You can use ibuprofen or similar nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling. First, verify that the drug will not interfere with your other medications.

Hot and cold compresses in combination can also dampen pain, lessen swelling, and speed healing. Apply either a hot or cold compress for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then allow the area to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before switching to the other compress.

If stress seems to be one of your causes, learning how to unwind could prove beneficial. You could learn various relaxation techniques and exercises. You might also schedule more time for sleep, journaling, meditation, and self-reflection.

Is Surgery Always Necessary?

Surgery is a possibility but, fortunately, TMD often responds well to non-surgical treatments. One highly effective non-surgical TMJ treatment is the use of a mouthguard, especially for those who grind their teeth.

Mouthguard

A mouthguard is a plastic appliance that fits over the teeth. The guard prevents grinding by not allowing the top and bottom teeth to come into contact.

People often grind their teeth during their sleep. So, your dentist may encourage you to always sleep with your mouthguard in place. Appropriately, another name for the appliance is nightguard.

The better the guard fits, the more effective it is. So, have your dentist make a custom guard for you. Don't rely on the over-the-counter versions.

Forcing your teeth into a generic guard will only cause discomfort. And remember, the primary reason for using a mouthguard is to help reduce pain.

Other Non-Surgical Treatments

Exercise has helped many. The exercises stretch your jaw muscles, loosening them. There are also exercises to gently massage your TMJ back into place.

Injections may prove beneficial. A doctor might use a corticosteroid to attack the swelling. Or he might opt for Botox to temporarily prevent certain painful muscles from activating.

Another method for blocking pain signals is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Small amounts of electricity trigger the muscles to unwind.

Prescription medications such as muscle relaxers can be helpful. They can be particularly effective for people who have the habit of clenching their jaw closed.

Where Can You Get Professional TMD/TMJ Help?

If you've tried to relieve your jaw pain but nothing has worked, it's time to turn to a professional like Dr. Bernard Lynch, DMD, FAGD, LVIF. Why go another day wondering how long does TMJ last?

Instead, immediately contact Dental Care Burke to arrange a visit with Dr. Lynch's staff. After a thorough evaluation, we'll know the true condition of your jaw pain.

Then together, we'll be in a better position to decide what your next step should be. Start today and move toward a pain-free tomorrow.

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Dr. Bernard Lynch

D.M.D

Dr. Bernard Lynch, DMD, FAGD, LVIF is focused around giving his patients the best possible dental care towards the end of long-term, overall good oral health, beautiful smiles, all while maintaining patient comfort. Dr. Lynch routinely keeps up-to-date with most cutting-edge dental technology and advances so as to cultivate a feeling of safety and comfort when his patients sit in the dental chair. He is broadly recognized for the continuous attention to his patients feelings, and of their mind-sets while they are under his care.

Joshua Kibrom

Treatment Plan Coordinator

Joshua Kibrom grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota where he attended the University of Minnesota for Marketing and Business Management. Upon moving to Northern Virginia, he began providing services at Dental Care Burke as a Treatment Plan Coordinator. To fully understand the needs of the patients, he obtained certification as a dental assistant. His main objective is to help the patients achieve the necessary treatment and fully understand the financial aspects of the plan. Joshua will work with patients to ensure all of your questions are answered appropriately.

Michael Gebre

Registered Dental Assistant

Micheal Gebre graduated from Northern Virginia Community College with a major in biology. He later received his Dental Assistant II (DAII) degree from Germana Community College, under Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg, Virginia in 2016. Michael works as Registered DAII, which is the new version of Dental Physician Assistant. He had over 10 years experience as a Dental Assistant before becoming a Registered DAII.

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Comprehensive Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Options in Burke, Virginia

By Dental Care Burke • May 6, 2025

Did you know that, according to NIDCR, around 12 million Americans suffer from pain in their TMJ area? Many are affected by temporomandibular joint disorders. These conditions can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, significantly impacting daily life. Fortunately, many individuals find relief through non-surgical methods. Today, we are exploring comprehensive non-surgical TMJ treatment options available in Burke, Virginia. Understanding TMJ Disorders Many people feel jaw pain or discomfort without knowing the real cause. One possible reason is a problem with the temporomandibular joint, often called TMJ disorder. This condition can create many daily challenges. There are three major areas to understand when it comes to TMJ disorders: What causes TMJ disorders Common symptoms to watch for How jaw pain can affect daily life What Causes TMJ Disorders TMJ disorders can develop from different factors. Stress is a major cause because it often makes people clench their jaws or grind their teeth without realizing it. TMJ disorders can also be caused by jaw injuries , arthritis , or problems with how teeth fit together. Some people have a natural imbalance in the jaw muscles or joints that can trigger pain and discomfort over time. Common Symptoms to Watch For Jaw pain is one of the most common signs of a TMJ disorder. Many people notice stiffness, trouble opening their mouths fully, or a clicking sound when they chew or talk. Some even experience headaches, earaches, or facial pain. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and come and go without warning. How Jaw Pain Can Affect Daily Life TMJ disorders can make simple tasks feel overwhelming. Eating, talking, yawning, and even smiling can cause discomfort. Over time, untreated jaw pain can affect sleep quality and emotional health. TMJ pain remedies often become necessary when the discomfort starts to interfere with normal activities. Finding the right support early can make a big difference in managing jaw pain relief before it becomes harder to control. TMJ Treatment Options Available in Burke, Virginia People living with TMJ pain often want fast answers about where to go and what treatments can help. The good news is that Burke, Virginia, offers many non-surgical paths to jaw pain relief. There are three main types of TMJ treatment options available locally: Customized dental TMJ solutions Natural TMJ relief therapies Supportive therapies offered by healthcare providers Customized Dental TMJ Solutions Many dentists in Burke specialize in non-surgical TMJ care. They can create custom night guards or splints that keep the jaw in a better position while you sleep. Some dentists offer bite adjustments that help correct how your teeth meet, which can relieve pressure on the jaw. These dental TMJ solutions are often the first step when seeking relief without surgery. Natural TMJ Relief Therapies Natural TMJ relief is another option people often try, alone or with professional care. Techniques like stretching exercises, cold or warm compresses, and relaxation practices can help lessen tension in the jaw . Many people also find that simple changes like adjusting posture or choosing softer foods can reduce discomfort over time. Supportive Therapies Offered by Healthcare Providers Some healthcare providers in Burke offer supportive treatments like physical therapy, acupuncture, or massage therapy. These therapies work by relaxing the muscles around the jaw and improving overall joint function. Finding the right combination of TMJ treatment options can make a real difference in how people feel each day. Professional Dental TMJ Solutions When jaw pain becomes part of daily life, working with a dentist can offer real help. Dental professionals have many ways to treat TMJ issues without surgery. There are three main types of professional dental TMJ solutions that patients often use: Custom night guards and splints Bite adjustments Dental treatments that support jaw health Custom Night Guards and Splints One of the most common dental TMJ solutions is a custom night guard or splint. These devices are made to fit your mouth and help keep the jaw in a better position during sleep. Night guards can protect teeth from grinding and reduce pressure on the joints. Many patients find regular use can lessen jaw pain and stiffness over time. Bite Adjustments for Better Alignment When teeth do not come together properly, the jaw can experience extra stress . Dentists often suggest small changes to the shape of teeth, called bite adjustments, to correct this. A better bite can relieve pressure on the jaw muscles and joints. Many people notice that their headaches and jaw tension improve once their bite is corrected. Dental Treatments That Support Jaw Health Sometimes, larger dental problems like missing teeth or uneven dental work can add to TMJ discomfort. Dentists might suggest crowns, bridges, or other treatments to restore balance in these cases. Helping the mouth function better as a whole can make a big difference. Professional dental TMJ solutions aim to relieve pain while improving how the teeth and jaw work together. Natural TMJ Relief Methods Gentle exercises are often used to help strengthen the jaw muscles and improve movement. These movements can stretch tight muscles and support joint function more smoothly. Some people find that practicing slow mouth opening and closing of the mouth or moving the jaw from side to side can reduce stiffness. It is important to move carefully and stop if pain increases. Applying heat or cold to the jaw can offer natural TMJ relief for many people. Heat helps relax muscles and increase blood flow to the area. Cold packs can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain. Many people find switching between the two methods helpful depending on how their jaw feels on a given day. Natural TMJ Relief Finding the right TMJ treatment options can make a real difference in daily comfort and long-term wellness. At Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard Lynch is committed to ongoing education to help patients feel safe, comfortable, and confident in their smiles for life. He believes in constantly advancing his knowledge of dentistry and stays active with leading organizations and peers in the field. He also takes a conservative approach before considering surgical interventions! Get in touch today to learn how we can help with your TMJ issues!

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques for TMJ Disorders at Our Burke, VA Practice

By Dental Care Burke • May 6, 2025

According to the NIH, TMJ disorders consist of more than 30 specific disorders related to pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles. These conditions can also cause headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing, making daily life uncomfortable. If you have been experiencing these symptoms, you might wonder how doctors diagnose TMJ disorders. TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, one of the most complex joints in the body. Today, we are taking a closer look at the advanced diagnostic techniques we use at our Burke, VA, practice to understand TMJ symptoms better and help patients find lasting relief. TMJ Disorders: Clinical Examination Techniques Before using advanced tools, a dentist must carefully check the patient's mouth, jaw, and face through a detailed clinical exam. This hands-on step helps guide the next parts of the diagnosis. There are three major parts of a good clinical exam for TMJ disorders : Palpation of the jaw muscles and joints Checking the jaw's range of motion Listening for sounds and checking for tenderness Palpation of the Jaw Muscles And Joints The first step often involves feeling the muscles and joints by hand. The dentist gently presses on different areas to locate the pain . It can show if the muscles are sore, if swelling is present, or if there are signs of inflammation. Careful palpation helps spot problems that might not be seen with imaging alone. Checking the Jaw's Range of Motion A healthy temporomandibular joint should move smoothly when opening and closing the mouth. During the exam, the dentist asks the patient to open wide, close, and shift their jaw from side to side. If movement is limited or uneven, it can point to joint damage or muscle tension . Watching how the jaw moves is important in creating the right dental care solutions. Listening for Sounds and Checking for Tenderness The dentist will listen carefully for clicks, pops, or grinding sounds during jaw movements. These sounds can mean the joint is not moving correctly. Tenderness around the face, neck, or shoulders is checked, too. Tight or painful areas can show how much the problem has spread and how it affects the whole facial system. These checks give valuable clues that help with facial pain management and jaw pain treatment. Advanced Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis While a good clinical exam provides essential information, imaging plays a major role in gaining a full view of TMJ disorders . Understanding what happens inside the temporomandibular joint helps build a clear treatment plan. Three main types of imaging are often used: Panoramic X-rays for basic views CT scans for detailed bone structure MRI scans for soft tissue and disc analysis Panoramic X-Rays Panoramic X-rays are often the first imaging step. In one image, they show a complete picture of the teeth, jaws, and joints. It helps spot large issues like bone damage, missing teeth, or growths that might affect the joint . While panoramic X-rays are helpful, they sometimes miss smaller problems inside the joint. CT Scans for Detailed Bone Structure When more detail is needed, a CT scan examines the bones around the temporomandibular joint in greater detail. This scan helps spot fractures, joint wear, and even tiny changes in bone shape. CT imaging is a powerful tool for dentists who are creating dental care solutions that require a deep view of the bone structure. MRI Scans for Soft Tissue and Disc Analysis MRI scans are often used to study the soft tissues inside the joint, including the cartilage disc that cushions movement. An MRI can show if the disc is out of place or if there is swelling inside the joint. This information is valuable when patients are seeking relief from TMJ symptoms through personalized treatment plans. Joint Function Tests and Measurements When patients experience TMJ disorders , it is important to examine the joint and study how it moves during daily use. Joint function tests and measurements provide valuable information that helps build a strong treatment plan. There are three common ways dentists measure joint function: Electromyography (EMG) to study muscle activity Jaw tracking devices to follow jaw movements Measuring jaw strength and flexibility during function Electromyography (EMG) To Study Muscle Activity Electromyography is a tool for measuring the function of the muscles around the temporomandibular joint . Small sensors are placed on the skin to detect muscle activity while the patient opens, closes, and moves the jaw. If the muscles are overactive, underactive, or out of balance, the results can guide jaw pain treatment that targets the real cause of discomfort. Jaw Tracking Devices to Follow Jaw Movements Jaw-tracking devices are another helpful way to measure function. These tools track how the jaw moves in real-time. They can show if the jaw opens unevenly, if there are sudden shifts, or if the joint does not follow a natural path. Problems in movement often connect to larger TMJ disorders that need focused care . Measuring Jaw Strength and Flexibility During Function Jaw strength and flexibility are key parts of a healthy temporomandibular joint. During testing, the patient may be asked to bite, stretch, or perform small movements while the dentist measures the results. During these tests, weakness, stiffness, or pain can point to damage or strain that needs attention. These measurements help dentists create better dental care solutions and offer real TMJ symptom relief to patients struggling with daily pain. Dental Care Solutions Finding the correct answers for TMJ disorders starts with careful, advanced diagnostic techniques. We can better understand each patient's needs by combining clinical exams, imaging, and joint function tests. At Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard Lynch, DMD, FAGD, LVIF is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term oral health, confident smiles, and lasting comfort. He stays current with the latest dental technology to create a safe, welcoming experience for everyone who visits. Dr. Lynch is known for his genuine attention to patients' feelings, always prioritizing their comfort and peace of mind. Get in touch today to learn how we can help with your TMJ issues .