Will TMJ Ever Go Away?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects the jaw joints and the muscles controlling jaw movement. This disorder can cause a range of symptoms, including pain in the jaw, difficulty chewing, and a clicking sound when opening the mouth. For many patients, the primary concern is whether TMJ will ever go away. This question is complex and requires a thorough understanding of TMJ, its causes, and available treatments. At Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari’s clinic, we specialize in providing effective TMJ treatment, offering hope and relief for those suffering from this condition.
Understanding TMJ
The temporomandibular joints are the hinge joints connecting the lower jaw to the skull. These joints are crucial for various activities such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. TMJ disorder can arise from multiple factors, including trauma to the jaw, arthritis, genetic predisposition, or habits like teeth grinding (bruxism).
Symptoms of TMJ
Patients with TMJ may experience a variety of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Aching pain around the ear
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
- A clicking or grating sensation when opening the mouth
These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making effective TMJ treatment essential.
Causes of TMJ
Understanding the causes of TMJ is crucial for determining whether the condition will go away. Common causes include:
Injury or Trauma
Injuries to the jaw or head can damage the temporomandibular joints, leading to TMJ. In such cases, the severity and duration of the disorder depend on the extent of the injury and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Arthritis
Arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the temporomandibular joints, leading to TMJ. In these cases, managing the underlying arthritis is key to alleviating TMJ symptoms.
Bruxism
Teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep, can put excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joints, leading to TMJ. Addressing bruxism through dental appliances or stress management techniques can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms.
Structural Abnormalities
Structural issues such as misaligned teeth or jaw can contribute to TMJ. Orthodontic treatments or surgery may be required to correct these abnormalities and alleviate TMJ symptoms.
Will TMJ Go Away?
The possibility of TMJ going away depends on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of the treatment. For some individuals, TMJ symptoms may resolve on their own or with minimal intervention. However, for others, ongoing management may be necessary.
Self-Resolution
In some cases, TMJ symptoms may diminish over time without significant intervention. This can occur if the condition is mild and not caused by a chronic issue like arthritis. Factors contributing to self-resolution include avoiding excessive jaw movements, practicing good posture, and managing stress.
Effective Treatment
Effective TMJ treatment can significantly improve symptoms and enhance the likelihood of the condition resolving. At Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari’s clinic, we offer a range of treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Common TMJ treatments include:
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications like muscle relaxants or tricyclic antidepressants may be recommended.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the jaw muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. Techniques such as jaw stretches, massages, and posture correction are commonly used.
Dental Appliances
Custom-made dental appliances, such as splints or mouthguards, can help alleviate TMJ symptoms by reducing teeth grinding and providing jaw support.
Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation in the temporomandibular joints. Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can also help by relaxing overactive jaw muscles.
Surgery
Surgery is considered a last resort for severe TMJ cases that do not respond to other treatments. Surgical options include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, and open-joint surgery.
The Role of a TMJ Specialist
A TMJ specialist, such as Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Specialists have the expertise to identify the underlying causes of TMJ and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient.
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective TMJ treatment. A TMJ specialist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:
- Medical history review
- Physical examination of the jaw
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the diagnosis, the TMJ specialist will develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include a combination of medications, physical therapy, dental appliances, and lifestyle modifications. The specialist will also provide guidance on self-care techniques to manage symptoms at home.
Long-Term Management
For some patients, TMJ may become a chronic condition requiring long-term management. Ongoing care from a TMJ specialist can help keep symptoms under control and improve the patient’s quality of life. Long-term management strategies include:
Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing TMJ symptoms. These changes may include:
- Stress management techniques such as meditation or yoga
- Avoiding hard or chewy foods
- Practicing good posture
- Performing jaw exercises regularly
Regular Monitoring
Regular follow-up appointments with a TMJ specialist are essential for monitoring the condition and adjusting the treatment plan as needed. This ongoing care ensures that any changes in symptoms are promptly addressed.
Support and Education
Patients with TMJ benefit from support and education about their condition. Understanding the causes and treatment options empowers patients to take an active role in managing their TMJ and improving their overall well-being.
Conclusion
Will TMJ ever go away? The answer varies from person to person, depending on the underlying causes and the effectiveness of the treatment. For some, TMJ symptoms may resolve on their own or with minimal intervention. For others, ongoing management may be necessary to control symptoms and improve quality of life. At Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari’s clinic, we specialize in providing comprehensive TMJ treatment, offering hope and relief for those suffering from this condition. By working with a TMJ specialist and adopting appropriate lifestyle modifications, patients can significantly reduce their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.
About Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari
Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari is a board-certified TMJ and Oral Facial Pain specialist. He focuses his practice on TMJ disorders, oral pain, facial pain and associated headaches. He treats patients in New York City. His practice is conveniently located in midtown Manhattan three blocks from Grand Central Terminal and Bryant Park.
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
- Treasurer and Committee Chair, NYU Dentistry Alumni Association
- Diplomate, American Board of Orofacial Pain
- Fellow, American Academy of Orofacial Pain
- Chair of Membership Committee, American Academy of Orofacial Pain
Dr. Nojan shares his in-depth knowledge of the TMJ, oral and facial pain as Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. He taught for 5 years at Yale-New Haven Hospital as a clinical attending and course director. He is one of very few diplomates of the American Board of Orofacial Pain and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain.
As an expert in the field, he has been invited to lecture at New York University, New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, New York State Dental Association, Woodhull Hospital, Lincoln Medical Center, and numerous dental societies and conferences (including Greenwich and Stamford Dental Societies, New Haven Dental Association, Connecticut Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, New England Dental Society Annual Meeting).
What are treatment options offered by Dr. Nojan?
Dr. Nojan offers the best and advanced treatment options available for TMJ, facial pain, oral pain and headaches. Treatments offered by Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari are personalized to you when looking to know more about inflammation of the jaw, and may include:
- Oral appliance therapy (custom mouthguards, nightguards, splints)
- Therapeutic injections
- Trigger point injections for muscle pain
- Nerve blocks
- Steroid injections for TMJ joint and tendons
- Botox for TMJ, nerve pain, jaw pain and headaches
- Therapeutic ointments and medication for oral, facial and TMJ pain
Overview of Treatments for TMJ, Facial Pain and Oral Pain
Dr. Nojan offers the most advanced and evidence-based treatment options for TMJ, facial pain, oral pain and related headaches.
“Don’t leave TMJ and orofacial pain treatments to guesswork.”
Treatments will always be personalized to you, your condition and your treatment approach preferences. We understand that some patients do not like taking medications, while others are afraid of needles, or have life-styles that prevent them from wearing a bite guard. Learn more about what happens at your first visit with Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, DDS, FAAOP. For that reasons, we offer the full range of treatment options and learning about inflammation of the jaw while also including:
- Oral appliance therapy(comfortable and custom bite guards, nightguards, splints)
- Therapeutic injections(such as trigger point muscle injections, nerve blocks, and botox®), PRP
- Steroid injections jaw joint (TMJ) and associated tendons
- Compounded Topical Pain Medications and mouth rinses
- Jaw stretching exercises and physical therapy modalities
TMJ Treatment options vary depending on the individual suffering from TMJ and the specifics of their condition. Since TMJ/TMD can affect the musculature, tendons, bones and joint of the jaw, a thorough examination and diagnosis is paramount prior to initiating any treatment. Treatments include therapeutic injections of muscles and the joints, custom fabricated orthotics (also called splints, mouth guards, nightguards or occlusal guards), medications, creams, botox©, jaw stretching exercises, and physical therapy.
TMJ therapies should never include grinding down of otherwise healthy teeth. It is ill-advised to suggest to a patient that grinding of their otherwise healthy natural teeth is related to the TMJ pain they are perceiving. This treatment philosophy of “correcting the bite”, by either grinding down teeth (occlusal adjustments), restoring teeth with crowns, or moving teeth with braces or invisalign©, has been debunked in the dental and scientific literature.
What to expect at your first visit to our office
At your first visit to our office, Dr. Bakhtiari and his team will thoroughly examine your jaw, face, TMJ, bite and mouth. He will determine the source and cause of your discomfort, and devise a customized treatment solution that will work for you to help with inflammation of the jaw.
The initial consultation includes:
- Review of your medical history
- Detailed evaluation of your pain, discomfort and/or other symptoms
- Cranial nerve screening
- Muscle palpation of the muscles of your jaw, head and neck
- TMJ evaluation: evaluating the health of your jaw joints including their range of motion, tenderness and any clicking/popping sounds
- Additional imaging if necessary: X-rays, panoramic, CT scans, MRIs
- Additional testing as needed: diagnostic topical anesthetics, muscle and nerve blocks, blood tests