Does your jaw hurt or make noises?
Specialized TMJ (Jaw Joint) Disorder Treatment

Even if there’s only noise, the condition can progress, so we recommend an evaluation.

In most cases, conservative treatmentcan greatly improve symptoms. Full recovery may take several months.

Mostly during sleep. Depending on your symptoms, daytime wear may also be needed.

Dentists provide specialized diagnosis and treatment. We comprehensively evaluate bite issues, teeth grinding (bruxism), and muscle tension—the main causes of TMJ disorder—and provide personalized care.

Cold packs help during acute flare-ups; heat helps with chronic pain. If it lasts more than 2 weeks, please get an exam. Self-care alone can’t resolve the root cause.

TMJ disorder (TMD) is a collective term for conditions causing pain, noise, or limited opening in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Typical signs include “clicking” or “creaking” when you open your mouth, jaw pain, or difficulty opening wide.

If there’s only noise without pain, treatment isn’t always necessary. However, if pain occurs, your mouth won’t open well, or the sound worsens, you should be evaluated by a specialist. Leaving it untreated can make it worse.

Teeth grinding/clenching habits, stress, trauma, malocclusion, chewing only on one side, and prolonged mouth opening (dental treatment, yawning) can all contribute. Multiple factors often act together.

① Occlusal stabilization splint(splint) wear ② Medication (anti-inflammatory pain relievers, muscle relaxants) ③ Physical therapy ④ Habit correction (avoid clenching) ⑤ Botox injections (for severe muscle tightness). Most cases improve with conservative care, and surgery is rarely needed.

It’s hard to eliminate grinding completely, but a nighttime occlusal guard (night guard) can reduce tooth wear and TMJ load. Stress management, cutting back on caffeine, and relaxation exercises before bed also help.

Mild cases: 2–4 weeks; moderate: 3–6 months; chronic TMJ disorder: 6 months or more. Consistent treatment and habit changes are important.

Recognize + correct clenching habits, reduce hard foods (squid, ice, etc.), chew evenly on both sides, avoid resting your chin on your hand, manage stress, and get enough sleep.

At Seoul BD Dental, a TMJ and orofacial pain specialist (Dr. Byungmin Lee) is on site, and we operate a TMJ clinic to Seoul National University standards. With CT/MRI-based precision diagnostics and custom-made splints, we provide systematic care.