When you have a TMJ disorder, you’re likely to experience jaw pain and other unpleasant symptoms on a regular basis. You’ll naturally want to have the issue treated as quickly as possible – but just how quickly is realistic? What will the timeline for TMJ treatment look like? This may seem like a simple enough question, but the answer can vary based on the situation.
What Treatments are Available for TMJ Disorder?
There are actually multiple ways to address TMJ-related pain, and the method that your dentist suggests will depend on the specifics of your case, such as the underlying cause of the disorder as well as how severe it is. Below are a couple of common examples of TMJ treatment:
- Oral Appliance Therapy: You will be given a customized oral appliance (which will often be referred to as a stabilization splint or a bite guard). By wearing this appliance, it can slightly reposition your jaw and keep your upper and lower rows of teeth from making direct contact with each other. This ultimately relieves much of the pressure on your jaw joints.
- BOTOX®: BOTOX® is best known as a solution for facial wrinkles, but it can also provide short-term relief from jaw pain. Your dentist can inject BOTOX® into your jaw muscles to help them relax and prevent the unconscious movements that can contribute to TMJ disorder.
How Long Does Oral Appliance Therapy for TMJ Disorder Take?
You will need to wear your oral appliance for a certain amount of time before you can enjoy lasting relief. Many people find that their symptoms start diminishing almost immediately after the treatment begins, and there will often be significant improvements after the six-week mark. That said, you can typically expect oral appliance therapy to take around three to six months; note that your own treatment could potentially be longer or shorter.
For some people, oral appliance therapy can fully resolve their TMJ issues. Others may need to wear the appliance on an ongoing basis to keep seeing results.
How Long Does BOTOX® for TMJ Disorder Take?
The procedure can normally be completed in about 10 to 30 minutes, although the exact length depends on how many injections are required. After the treatment, you will often be able to start feeling the benefits within just a couple of days, and the full effects will become obvious after about 7 to 10 days. BOTOX® is only a temporary solution for TMJ disorder, but it can go a long way toward helping you stay comfortable while the underlying cause of your jaw pain is dealt with.
If you want to learn more about your treatment options for TMJ disorder, talk to your dentist. They can give you a clearer picture of what the treatment timeline will look like and answer any other questions that might be on your mind. Remember, no matter how long it will take, you can rest assured that relief is on the way.
About the Author
Dr. Matt Mauck is a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine as well as a member of the Metropolitan Denver Dental Association. He makes a point of helping his patients feel calm and relaxed whenever they visit his office in Aurora. He can provide oral appliance therapy and BOTOX® in order to treat TMJ disorder. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Mauck at Mauck & Ricci, DDS, visit his website or call (303) 745-1400.l (303) 745-1400.