What Will Happen If TMJ Is Not Treated?

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJs) are quite common, with nearly a third of all adults experiencing them at some point. While some cases resolve without professional treatment, you should seek professional treatment if your symptoms are persistent or recurring. Putting off TMJ treatment might save you time and money in the near term, but it won’t save you from the literal or financial pain you’ll suffer when left untreated.

Our office offers several TMJ treatments to help you relieve TMJ-associated pain as quickly as possible. And the good news is that the sooner you begin treatment, the faster you’ll experience relief.

Reasons Not to Postpone TMJ Treatment

A TMJ disorder can stem from multiple factors, including trauma, teeth clenching or grinding, arthritis, and even stress. TMJ pain can also be a symptom of disc dislocation in the joint, which is why you might hear a popping or cracking sound coming from your jaw.

If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis from your dentist about the condition. Reasons you should seek immediate treatment include:

  1. Untreated TMJ can get worse. TMJ is generally a progressive condition and can lead to symptoms like a locked jaw and ear ringing and pain. And as it gets worse, your treatment options narrow and can become more expensive.
  2. Persistent jaw pain can affect your sleep. TMJ-related neck tension, headaches, and teeth grinding can lead to issues like sleep apnea, insomnia, nightmares, and a decrease in your quality of life.
  3. Compromised oral health. Untreated TMJ is linked to jaw clenching and teeth grinding, both of which wear away tooth enamel and expose your teeth to potential fractures.

The good news is, when detected and treated early, the noninvasive treatments offered by our practice can slow, stop, or even reverse the condition.

TMJ Treatment Types

The treatment you need for your TMJ depends on the type and severity of your condition.

  • Orthodontics. This treatment is used for TMJ disorders triggered by bite issues. Children with TMJ typically wear orthodontics for two years, while adults average from 18 months to three years.
  • Therapies like massaging or stretching the jaw and neck can bring relief, but often supplement additional treatment options.
  • Mouth splints and mouth guards are available in multiple styles, and both work by relieving jaw pain. Splints are usually worn from several weeks to several months. Mouthguards hold your teeth apart and keep them from grinding against each other. How long you must wear a mouth guard varies, but many people choose to wear one on an ongoing basis.

Get TMJ Treatment Today

Chronic TMJ pain can negatively affect your health and overall quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety and in worse cases even depression. Our office provides the latest treatments to relieve TMJ pain. To schedule a consultation and discuss your treatment options, contact us today.