How Long Does TMJ Pain Last?

One of the reasons TMJ is difficult to diagnose is the somewhat amorphous nature of its symptoms. This includes their regularity. Some patients have regular pain, dizziness, or headaches. Others may only have the occasional flare-up. Just know that if you do not seek medical care, even if your symptoms are infrequent, it’s likely the problem will not correct itself.

Here are some common TMJ symptoms:

·         Headache

·         Dizziness or a vertigo-like effect

·         Discomfort while chewing

·         Audible clicking or popping sounds in the jaw

·         Tinnitus-like ringing or a fluid-like sensation in the ears

Living with pain is something all doctors discourage, not just our Los Angeles TMJ expert. The goal is always to remove the pain entirely, not just manage it. But it is incumbent on the patient to be forthcoming and accurate. The frustrating aspects of TMJ can continue for years, off and on—especially if you treat it as something you have to live with.

Fortunately, TMJ is highly treatable. You can work on it yourself with a home care routine, making sure to include stretching, breathing exercises, and ergonomics. TMJ can be induced simply by stress or by bad posture at your desk. The sooner you identify the source, the shorter your pain’s life expectancy will be.