TMJ Disorder: How Long Does the Pain Last?

Those who have experienced TMJ pain know that it is no joke. Laughing, chewing, or even talking can be an uncomfortable task when experiencing pain in your temporomandibular joint. In certain scenarios, the symptoms may go away without treatment.

It is estimated that over 10 million Americans are affected with temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders. Often the pain will go away with little or no treatment. If symptoms persist, your dentist can recommend different treatment options.

How Long Does the Pain Last?

TMJ pain can be debilitating, so you must be wondering how long the pain typically lasts. Sadly, there isn’t any simple answer to this question. The duration of the pain is dependent on the cause and the individual.

For some people, the pain can be alleviated by taking over-the-counter pain medications and anti-inflammatories.

Some causes of TMJ disorder:

• Bruxism

Grinding or clenching your teeth.

• Malocclusion (Misalignment)

If your teeth in the upper and lower jaw don’t touch evenly, you have an improper or misaligned bite, known in dental terms as malocclusion.

• Injury / Facial Trauma

Facial trauma from an accident.

Signs and Symptoms

TMJ symptoms will vary from person to person, depending on the cause and severity of your condition. However, one of the glaring signs will be a pain in your jaw and the surrounding area. In any case, you will experience the following symptoms:

• Painful clicking and popping when opening or closing your mouth
• Pain radiating from the face, jaw, or neck
• Muscle stiffness, locking, or limited movement of the jaw
• Change in the way your teeth fit together

In some cases, the symptoms will be successfully treated with home remedies, such as reducing stress and changing your position. However, there are times that you will need expert help. So if you are experiencing TMJ pain, you should contact our dentist at Mertz Family Dentistry. We can help you feel better!