Treatment Overview

The goal of treatment for temporomandibular (TM) disorders is to relieve pain in the jaw and restore normal jaw movement and function. Several treatment approaches are effective. Often, simple home treatment measures can successfully relieve jaw pain without medical or dental treatment. For chronic, muscle-related TM disorders, standard medical care can include muscle relaxation measures, biofeedback, stress management, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends conservative, noninvasive treatment measures for TM disorders. For first-time treatment of TM disorder symptoms, the NIH recommends avoiding invasive or irreversible procedures, such as surgery or dental/orthodontic work.³

The most common dental treatment for TM disorders is using splints or bite plates for a short period of time. Splints—called occlusal splints—are usually clear, plastic appliances that fit between the upper and lower teeth. They help reduce grinding and clenching (bruxism) and, in turn, can relieve muscle tension and pain. This may allow a displaced disc to return to its normal position. Splints are used over short periods of time so that they do not cause permanent changes in the teeth or jaw.

Temporarily avoid dental work (such as crowns, bridges, or shaving down the teeth) and orthodontic treatments involving permanent changes to the jaw. At best, these measures may not work any better than conservative treatments. At worst, they can cause irreversible damage. If your doctor recommends surgery or other treatment that involves permanent changes, be sure to get a second opinion before you start treatment.

TM disorder: Should I have surgery for jaw pain?

See the Home Treatment, Other Treatment, and Surgery sections of this topic for specific treatment options.

What To Think About

Often, structural problems in the jaw, such as disc displacement, can be improved with conservative (nonsurgical) treatment, especially when they are treated early.

In the past, teeth not fitting together properly (malocclusion) was considered to be a cause of TM disorders, and braces (orthodontics) were used to treat them. Current research suggests that orthodontic treatment and malocclusion do not trigger TM disorders or make them worse.^{2, 2}

Most health and dental insurance plans do not cover TM disorders. Check with your insurance provider to find out whether you are covered before incurring medical or dental expenses related to diagnosis or treatment.