Jaw joint pain treatment (TMJ)

TMJ · jaw clicking · jaw joint pain · TMJ disorder

The doctor finds out why your jaw joint hurts or clicks and chooses a treatment. Often this means exercises, a mouth guard, and relaxing tense muscles.

For pain in front of the ear, clicking, a jaw that locks, trouble opening your mouth, or frequent headaches from clenching your teeth.

⏱ Duration: the first visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes; treatment takes several weeks or months

Be sure to tell your doctor

When the pain started and what makes it worse
If you clench or grind your teeth, especially at night
If you had an injury to your jaw or face
What medicines you take
If you recently had fillings, crowns, or braces

How to prepare

Notes. Write down when it hurts and clicks: in the morning, when eating, when talking.
X-rays. Bring past X-rays of your teeth and jaw, if you have them.
Food. No special prep. The day before, try to avoid hard and chewy food.

What to bring

Your ID
Past X-rays and medical notes
A list of your medicines

How it goes

The doctor asks about your pain and habits
You are asked to open and close your mouth and move your jaw
The doctor feels the muscles of your face and the area in front of your ears
The doctor listens for clicks in the joint
If needed, an X-ray, CT, or MRI of the joint is ordered
The doctor explains the plan: exercises, a mouth guard, medicines, or physical therapy

What you'll feel

Pressing on the muscles can be unpleasant if they are tense
The exam itself is usually not painful

Afterwards

At home, eat soft food and do the exercises the doctor showed you
A mouth guard is usually made in a few days
Try not to chew gum or open your mouth very wide
Improvement is usually gradual. Come back for your follow-up

Contact a doctor straight away if

Your jaw is locked and your mouth will not close: see a doctor right away
Swelling of the face and a fever
Sudden severe pain after a blow to the jaw

Common questions

Will jaw clicking go away on its own?

Sometimes, yes. If the click does not hurt, watching it is often enough. If it hurts, it is better to see a doctor.

Why do I need a mouth guard?

It protects your teeth from clenching and takes pressure off the joint, especially at night.