Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The disorder can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted jaw movement, making it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ, you may be wondering how long it takes to treat the condition. Keep reading as we take a closer look at how long TMJ treatment typically takes and what factors can impact the duration of treatment.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction (TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. It causes pain, discomfort, and restricted jaw movement, making it difficult to perform everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even sleeping. TMJ dysfunction can result from various factors, including injury, teeth grinding, arthritis, and stress. If left untreated, the condition can worsen and cause long-term damage to the jaw joint.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The duration of TMJ treatment can vary depending on several factors. Generally, TMJ treatment can take a few weeks to several months to see significant improvement. Some of the things that affect how long treatment will take include the severity of the condition, the chosen treatment approach, and the patient’s overall health.
Facial stretches or jaw exercises can sometimes be done at home to help relax the muscles in your face to ease discomfort. A hot or cold compress and avoiding hard or chewy foods may also help, but professional intervention may be necessary.
Possible TMJ Dysfunction Treatments & How Long They Take
For many patients, a visit to the dentist may be needed to treat the issue. The type of treatment you undergo will impact how long it takes. Here are some common options your dentist may offer:
- Orthodontics – Treatment with Invisalign may be necessary to correct overbites, underbites, or crooked or misaligned teeth. The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the condition, but the average for most adults is 18 months to three years.
- Therapies – Massaging or stretching the jaw, stretching the neck, and practicing stress reduction exercises can offer immediate relief for TMJ discomfort. Even so, it may take several weeks to months to experience the full benefits.
- Dental work – To alleviate pressure on the TMJ, tooth extraction may be necessary. Typically, recovery time is three days to a week. In severe cases, surgery may be the best or only option to address jaw abnormalities. After surgery, recovery can last several months.
- Mouth splints & mouth guards – Splints and mouthguards are effective at relieving TMJ-induced jaw pain. Splints are typically worn for a few weeks to months, while mouthguards prevent bruxism or teeth grinding. The duration of treatment varies by patient, but both are proven to be effective. For persistent teeth grinding, a mouthguard may need to be worn regularly until the habit is stopped.
About the Practice
Dr. Jennifer Pham is a highly skilled dentist who is committed to helping her patients achieve their dream smiles through a combination of dental expertise and artistic vision. She is particularly passionate about providing effective TMJ treatment options that can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. Dr. Pham offers a variety of procedures to alleviate TMJ-related pain and promote overall oral health. For any inquiries about TMJ treatment or to schedule a visit, she can be contacted through her website or by phone at (703) 666-3867.