A TMJ disorder may last from few days to lifetime. That depends on the nature of your TMJ disorder. However, TMJ flare-up is when a sudden pain and other TMJ symptoms occur or existing TMJ symptoms get worse without warning. In this post, Dr. Khalifeh will discuss the topic of TMJ flare-up. What causes TMJ flare-up? How long does TMJ flare-up last? And, what to do for TMJ flare-ups?
What Causes TMJ Flare-Up?
There are many factors that may trigger TMJ flare-ups. Anything that cause direct or indirect injury to the Temporomandibular joint can cause TMJ flare-up. These factors include:
- Stress
- Sports injury
- Clenching and grinding teeth
- Wrong sleeping position
- Opening the mouth for long time
- Excessive gum chewing
- Crunchy and chewy foods
- Systemic conditions that affect the joints and muscles such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Lime disease, etc.
How Long TMJ Flare-Up Last?
Flare-up of the TMJ can last between few days to several weeks. That depends on the underlying cause and the initial management of the TMJ condition. Above all, TMJ flare-ups are associated with the following signs and symptoms:
- Pain in front of the ear on one side or both sides
- TMJ headaches
- Jaw lock
- Limited mouth opening
- Jaw clicking
- Ear pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Teeth ache
- Facial pain
- Facial swelling
What to do for TMJ Flare-Up?
TMJ flare-ups vary in severity and seriousness. Accordingly, managing a flare-up should be tailored to each specific case. Mild cases are managed using Ice backs and over the counter anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil. However, treating the underlying cause of the flare-up is where to start. Generally speaking, for best and fastest results, consult with a TMJ specialist or an Orofacial pain specialist ASAP. The following treatment modalities may be used to manage TMJ flare-ups:
- Physical therapy
- Avoidance therapy
- Cold or hot pads
- Ani-inflammatory medications such as Advil and steroids
- Jaw joint distraction
- Trigger points injections
- Acupuncture
- Temporomandibular joint injections using steroids or Sodium Hyaluronate
- Occlusal splints
- Stress reduction
- Sleep position correction
Stop the Suffering!
Are you suffering from TMJ disorder? Make an appointment with the best TMJ specialist doctor in Los Angeles, Dr. Khalifeh, or call his office @ 323-933-3855.