If you’ve been living with TMJ disorder or you’ve only been recently diagnosed with the condition, the best next course of action is to seek TMJ disorder treatment. In Singapore, just like in other places, treatment is crucial as it addresses a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint.
This is the joint connecting your jawbone to the skull. Learn more about the disorder on this page: https://tesclinic.com/services/temporomandibular-joint-disorders/.
Timely treatment will ensure that you alleviate the discomfort that comes with TMJ disorder and improve your quality of life. A professional evaluation and treatment plan can effectively manage your symptoms, restore jaw functions and, even better, prevent potentially worse complications.
Can TMJ be Fully Healed, and how Long does it Take to Heal?
To begin, it is important to acknowledge that TMJ disorder can have various underlying causes. These run the gamut from chronic teeth clenching or grinding to injuries, and certain connective tissue diseases, etc.
The prognosis for fully healing TMJ disorder depends on the specific circumstances of each case. If your TMJ condition is due to chronic teeth clenching or grinding, effective management of these habits through behavior modification techniques and the use of dental appliances can lead to significant improvement or resolution of symptoms.
However, if your TMJ disorder is a result of an injury, the potential for complete healing and the resolution of symptoms varies. The extent and severity of the injury are all pivotal in determining the outcome.
If your injury can heal fully, there is a possibility that no residual effects or long-term symptoms will persist. As the jaw injury heals over time, the associated pain may gradually diminish.
That said, the duration of healing and symptom resolution for those with TMJ disorder can vary significantly among individuals. There may even be a need for additional interventions or therapies for some patients to achieve optimal results. So, how long does TMJ take to heal?
The most straightforward answer is that in most cases, TMJ symptoms will clear up in no more than 21 days. However, if your condition was brought about by issues like bruxism or arthritis, it may take months or years for TMJ to heal fully.
Again, this depends on the severity of the underlying condition. It is worth emphasizing that seeking timely and appropriate treatment from healthcare professionals experienced in TMJ disorders is vital. An experienced provider will properly evaluate your situation and provide an accurate diagnosis.
They will also develop a personalized treatment plan which may involve a combination of approaches. These usually include pain management strategies, physical therapy, stress reduction techniques, and, in certain cases, surgical intervention.
How can I Speed up my TMJ Healing?
Making the effort to expedite TMJ healing is crucial. It can help you alleviate the pain, and even better restore normal jaws function, as well as improve your overall quality of life.
Prompt treatment and proactive management strategies will be crucial in minimizing the duration of symptoms, preventing the progression of the disorder, and promoting a faster recovery so you can return to your daily activities with greater comfort and well-being. Here are eight things you can do to speed up your TMJ healing;
- Maintain the resting position of your jaw: Practice to keep your jaw in a relaxed and neutral position throughout the day. Also, try to avoid excessive clenching or grinding. This will help minimize the strain on your temporomandibular joint and promote healing.
- Improve your posture: Maintain proper posture by sitting up straight. Also, align your head, neck, and shoulders. Poor posture can contribute to TMJ symptoms, so correcting it can alleviate stress on the jaw joint and facilitate healing.
- Prioritize quality sleep: Aim for a restful night’s sleep by establishing a regular sleep routine and creating a comfortable sleep environment. Poor sleep can exacerbate TMJ pain and hinder healing, so ensuring sufficient and uninterrupted sleep is essential.
- Utilize hot or cold compresses: Apply a warm compress or a cold pack to the affected area as directed by your healthcare provider. It would be best to alternate between heat and cold therapy to keep the pain, inflammation, and muscle tension in the jaw, down for better healing.
- Exercise your jaw: Perform gentle jaw exercises recommended by your healthcare provider or a physical therapist. These exercises can help increase the strength in your jaw muscles, improve flexibility, and promote healing of the temporomandibular joint.
- Identify and address bad habits: Be mindful of habits like nail biting, chewing on pens, or clenching your jaw unconsciously. These habits can exacerbate TMJ symptoms and hinder healing. Recognizing and addressing these habits can alleviate strain on the jaw joint and aid in the healing process.
- Avoid certain activities and foods: Temporarily avoid activities that require excessive jaw movement, such as chewing gum or biting into hard and chewy foods. Additionally, consider a soft food diet that minimizes strain on the jaw joint while it heals. Avoiding these activities and choosing jaw-friendly foods can help expedite healing and reduce symptoms.
Can you Live a Normal Life with TMJ?
If your TMJ disorder was due to conditions like arthritis or bruxism, which can so long to fully heal, you could be really itching to know if it is even possible to live a normal life with TMJ. The good news is that, with proper management and lifestyle adjustments, you can indeed live a fulfilling and normal life. Here are three tips to help you navigate this journey:
- Seek professional guidance: Consult with healthcare professionals experienced in TMJ disorders to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Professionals in jaw surgery will give you specific recommendations, strategies, and therapies to manage your symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life.
- Practice self-care and stress management: Incorporate stress reduction techniques into your daily routine. You will want to engage in activities like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.
- Find pain management strategies: Work with your healthcare provider to develop an effective pain management plan. This may involve a combination of approaches, like medications, physical therapy, heat or cold therapy, or alternative therapies like acupuncture.
In Closing
Keep in mind that TMJ disorder affects individuals differently, and the severity of symptoms can vary. Some patients will experience a complete resolution of symptoms, and others may require ongoing management. The most important thing is to get started on the necessary treatments as soon as possible and follow your TMJ specialist’s guidance on managing or dealing with your symptoms.
We are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for individuals experiencing TMJ disorder. If you’re troubled with TMJ, schedule a consultation with our experienced healthcare professionals today.
Don’t let TMJ hold you back—reclaim your comfort and well-being. Contact us now to start your journey towards a normal, fulfilling life with TMJ.
TES Clinic for Face and Jaw
304 Orchard Road,
Lucky Plaza Suites #05-42,
Medical Specialists,
Singapore 238863
+65 9735 9930