TMJ – Temporo-Mandibular Joint Pain

Acute Pain

Patients with sudden onset acute TMJ discomfort can be treated with the following regimen:
  1. Soft foods
  2. Limit opening
  3. Application of moist heat
  4. Anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen)
In addition, if relief is not evident within a short period of time, an anterior bite appliance may need to be constructed. If, after all this the condition continues, we may have to refer the patient to a specialist in TMJ disturbances for further evaluation.

Chronic Pain

The same regimen as above would be used in combination with a night guard for regular, long-term use (see page on night guards). Again, if no improvement is seen, a referral to a specialist may be needed.