How Long Does TMJ Swelling Last

By Dr Nojan Bakhtiari DR TMJ NYC - TMJ Pain Relief October 24, 2025

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) swelling can be frustrating, painful, and disruptive. When inflammation strikes this delicate joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, even simple tasks like talking or eating can feel unbearable. Understanding how long TMJ swelling lasts — and what you can do to reduce it — is essential for managing discomfort and preventing long-term complications.

In this in-depth guide, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, an experienced TMJ Specialist, explains the causes, duration, and treatment options for TMJ swelling. We’ll also cover when to seek professional TMJ Treatment to restore comfort and function.

What Causes TMJ Swelling?

TMJ swelling occurs when the tissues around the temporomandibular joint become inflamed. This inflammation can arise from several causes, including:

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)
Chronic grinding or clenching of teeth puts excessive pressure on the joint, leading to irritation and swelling.
Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Both types of arthritis can degrade joint cartilage, leading to inflammation and pain in the TMJ.
Jaw Injury or Trauma
A blow to the jaw, whiplash, or even overextending the jaw (such as during dental work) can trigger swelling.
Stress and Muscle Tension
Emotional stress often manifests as jaw tension, which can inflame the TMJ muscles and ligaments.
Malocclusion or Bite Misalignment
When the upper and lower teeth do not align correctly, the jaw joint is forced to move in unnatural ways, leading to inflammation.
Infection
In rare cases, an infection in the joint can cause severe swelling and tenderness.

How Long Does TMJ Swelling Last?

The duration of TMJ swelling depends on its underlying cause, the severity of inflammation, and how quickly treatment begins. On average:

Mild swelling may subside within a few days to two weeks with self-care and rest.
Moderate swelling might persist for 2 to 4 weeks if caused by repetitive strain or bruxism.
Severe swelling linked to arthritis or injury can last several months or become chronic without professional TMJ treatment.

Typically, inflammation should begin to decrease within a week once the jaw is rested and treated properly. If swelling persists beyond two weeks, it’s essential to consult a TMJ Specialist like Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari for a comprehensive evaluation.

Why Does TMJ Swelling Last So Long for Some People?

TMJ swelling can be stubborn because the joint is used constantly — for talking, chewing, yawning, and even breathing. This near-constant movement makes it difficult for the tissues to rest and heal.

Other factors that prolong swelling include:

Ignoring early signs of pain and continuing to strain the jaw
Underlying joint disorders such as arthritis
Stress-related clenching or grinding at night
Delayed or incorrect diagnosis
Improper self-treatment, such as overuse of heat or continuing to eat tough foods

Because the TMJ is a complex hinge-and-slide joint, inflammation can affect not only the joint capsule but also nearby muscles and ligaments — prolonging discomfort and swelling.

Typical Stages of TMJ Swelling

Acute Phase (0–7 Days):
Inflammation and pain peak during the first week. The joint may feel tender, stiff, and swollen, especially in the morning or after chewing.
Subacute Phase (1–3 Weeks):
Swelling begins to decrease, but discomfort and tightness may linger. This stage is when most patients start physical therapy or jaw exercises.
Healing Phase (3–8 Weeks):
With proper care, the inflammation continues to subside. Jaw motion improves, though flare-ups can occur with overuse.
Chronic Phase (8 Weeks or More):
If swelling persists beyond two months, it may indicate chronic TMJ dysfunction, arthritis, or an unresolved structural issue.

How to Tell if TMJ Swelling Is Improving

Signs that your TMJ swelling is healing include:

Reduced tenderness when pressing the jaw area
Less stiffness upon waking
Improved jaw mobility
Fewer headaches or earaches
Decreased clicking or popping sensations

If these symptoms don’t appear within a few weeks, the swelling may be chronic or related to an underlying structural problem requiring professional TMJ treatment.

What Makes TMJ Swelling Worse?

Certain habits and triggers can worsen TMJ inflammation:

Chewing gum or tough foods
Resting your chin on your hand
Sleeping on one side of your face
Excessive talking or yelling
Stress-induced clenching
Poor posture (especially forward head position)

Avoiding these behaviors helps reduce pressure on the joint, allowing swelling to resolve faster.

Effective Home Remedies to Reduce TMJ Swelling

While medical care is often necessary, several self-care strategies can relieve inflammation and speed recovery:

1. Cold Compress

Apply an ice pack to the jaw for 10–15 minutes at a time, several times daily during the first 48 hours. Cold helps reduce inflammation and numbs pain.

2. Warm Compress

After two days, switch to warm compresses. Heat improves blood flow and relaxes the muscles, which can ease stiffness.

3. Soft Diet

Stick to soft foods like soups, smoothies, eggs, and yogurt. Avoid chewy or crunchy foods that strain the jaw joint.

4. Jaw Rest

Minimize talking, chewing, and yawning to give the joint a chance to recover.

5. Gentle Stretching Exercises

Under the guidance of a TMJ specialist, gentle stretching can improve mobility and prevent stiffness.

6. Stress Management

Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness to reduce clenching.

7. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce both swelling and pain. However, prolonged use should be monitored by a professional.

When to See a TMJ Specialist

You should consult Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari or another TMJ specialist if you experience:

Persistent swelling lasting more than two weeks
Severe pain that interferes with chewing or speaking
Jaw locking or limited range of motion
Clicking or popping that worsens over time
Pain radiating to your ear, temple, or neck

Professional evaluation ensures that the swelling is not caused by a structural issue, infection, or degenerative joint disease.

Professional TMJ Treatments That Reduce Swelling

If home remedies do not help, professional intervention may be needed. A TMJ specialist like Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari offers several effective treatments:

1. Custom Night Guards (Occlusal Splints)

Custom-fitted splints prevent clenching and grinding at night, reducing joint pressure and inflammation.

2. Physical Therapy

Targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques improve joint alignment and muscle coordination.

3. Medications

Muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain.

4. Laser Therapy or Ultrasound

These advanced treatments use targeted energy to reduce swelling and improve tissue healing.

5. Arthrocentesis

A minimally invasive procedure that flushes out debris and inflammatory fluid from the joint, helping relieve swelling and restore motion.

6. Botox Injections

In some cases, Botox is used to relax overactive jaw muscles, reducing strain and inflammation.

7. Corrective Dental or Orthodontic Treatment

For patients with bite misalignment, adjusting the occlusion (bite) can provide long-term relief from TMJ pain.

How Long Does TMJ Swelling Last After Treatment?

After professional TMJ treatment, recovery time depends on the chosen therapy and the patient’s habits.

After arthrocentesis or injection:
Most patients notice improvement in swelling within 3–5 days, with full relief in about 2 weeks.
After physical therapy:
Swelling may take 2–4 weeks to subside, depending on consistency with exercises.
With custom night guards:
Relief typically appears within a few weeks, but ongoing use prevents recurrence.

The key is compliance with treatment and avoiding behaviors that trigger inflammation.

Can TMJ Swelling Come Back?

Yes, TMJ swelling can return if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Common relapse triggers include:

Returning to teeth grinding or jaw clenching
High stress levels
Neglecting follow-up care
Eating tough foods frequently
Poor posture or sleeping habits

That’s why ongoing monitoring with a TMJ Specialist like Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari is critical. Regular check-ups ensure the joint remains stable and functional.

How to Prevent TMJ Swelling from Returning

Wear Your Night Guard Regularly
Even when symptoms improve, continued use prevents muscle strain.
Maintain Good Posture
Keep your head aligned with your spine to avoid overloading the jaw.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Managing stress helps prevent involuntary clenching.
Avoid Extreme Jaw Movements
Skip wide yawns, large bites, or extended dental procedures when possible.
Follow a Balanced Diet
Choose softer foods when you feel early signs of tension.
Stay Consistent with Follow-Up Care
Routine visits with your TMJ specialist help detect early issues before they become chronic.

The Role of Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari in TMJ Treatment

As a leading TMJ Specialist, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic care for TMJ pain, swelling, and dysfunction. His approach combines advanced imaging, precise bite analysis, and evidence-based treatments to relieve pain and restore balance to the jaw joint.

Patients who work with Dr. Bakhtiari benefit from:

Personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique anatomy and symptoms
Minimally invasive procedures for lasting relief
Education on prevention and self-care to maintain jaw health long-term

Whether your TMJ swelling is acute or chronic, Dr. Bakhtiari provides the clarity and care you need for full recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Swelling

1. Can TMJ cause facial swelling?
Yes, inflammation in the TMJ can cause mild to moderate swelling around the jaw, cheeks, or near the ear.

2. How do I know if my TMJ swelling is serious?
If the swelling is severe, accompanied by fever, or makes it hard to open your mouth, it could indicate infection or dislocation — seek immediate medical help.

3. Can stress make TMJ swelling worse?
Absolutely. Stress often leads to clenching or grinding, which increases joint strain and inflammation.

4. Should I use ice or heat for TMJ swelling?
Start with ice for the first 48 hours to control inflammation, then switch to moist heat to relax muscles.

5. Will TMJ swelling go away on its own?
Mild swelling may improve with rest, but recurring or severe cases usually require professional TMJ treatment.

When to Contact Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari

If your jaw remains swollen, stiff, or painful after two weeks — or if it’s interfering with your daily life — schedule an evaluation with Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari. As a TMJ Specialist, he provides advanced diagnostic care and customized treatment plans that target the root cause of TMJ pain and inflammation.

Conclusion

TMJ swelling can last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the cause and the quality of care. The sooner you seek professional evaluation, the faster the healing process. Ignoring symptoms can turn a short-term flare-up into chronic TMJ dysfunction.

With the expertise of Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, patients can expect not only relief from TMJ swelling but also lasting jaw health through comprehensive treatment and preventive care. Whether you’re experiencing acute inflammation or chronic TMJ pain, timely professional treatment ensures you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence.