Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can cause persistent jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and discomfort that affects everyday life. Many Australians suffer from TMJ dysfunction (TMD) without realising there are effective ways to treat and even permanently cure the condition.

This guide will explore how to cure TMJ permanently, covering natural remedies, physiotherapy, medical treatments, and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms for good.

Causes of TMJ disorder

TMJ disorder can be caused by several factors, such as stress, jaw injury, bruxism (involuntary clenching of teeth), and malocclusion (misalignment of the upper and lower teeth).

Symptoms of TMJ

• Restricted jaw movement: Not able to open jaw properly due to pain in the mouth joints.
• Swelling: Soreness of the joint may extend to the nearby tissues causing swelling.
• Ear pain: Ear pain is a result of stretched muscles of the jaw bone.
• Neck pain: It occurs due to joint dysfunctions and excessive strain on the jaw muscles.

How to cure TMJ permanently

Many people believe that TMJ cannot be cured, but with the right treatment plan, it is possible to find long-term relief. Below are some of the most effective ways to treat and cure TMJ permanently.

1. Physical therapy

Physical therapy is one of the best options for treating TMJ. While there is no definitive cure, it can help reduce pain. A massage of the lower jaw can also provide relief to the neck and jaw. Also dry needling for trigger points such as neck and jaw for relieving pain. Two therapies that can lessen the pain include:

• Thermotherapy: Warm presses on the swelling will be a source of vanishing swelling.
• Cryotherapy: Cold compresses after exercise can help regulate blood flow and reduce swelling. 

2. Medication

Medications can play a key role in managing TMJ symptoms. Options include:

Muscle Relaxants – Reduce swelling and stiffness in the temporomandibular joint.

Botox Injections – Can help reduce jaw tension and pain.

3. Dietary adjustments

Meals: Opt for soft and easy-to-eat foods like scrambled eggs, oatmeal, soups, yogurt, pasta, fish, and refreshing smoothies.

Tips for eating purpose during TMJ disorder:

• Avoid eating hard food like meat
• Drink more liquid
• Cut any food into pieces for easy eating

4. Stress reduction

Engaging in various stress-relief techniques, such as:

• Deep breathing: Do deep breathing exercises for the calmness of the nervous system or joints. Inhaling and exhaling for almost 10 times with same interval of time will keep your mind fresh and joints relaxed. 
• Take breaks: If you are a working person then take a break from work and spend time relaxing.

5. Seek dental help

In severe pain in the jaw and neck, go to dentists for braces. Braces are not the cure for TMJ, but it is only for reducing the pain in the jaw. If the cause of TMJ disorder is malocclusion, then braces are reasonable for the treatment of TMJ, causes of malocclusion can be in genetics but it is not a disease itself. Braces are good for tooth alignment to avoid any chance of infection from TMJ disorder.

6. Medical procedure

During severe pain in the jaw go for surgery to avoid any further discomfort. Surgery is considered a final resort when all other options are exhausted. Surgery can help to reduce the symptoms but it is not a proof of permanent cure of it. There are some surgeries: 

• Joint aspiration (Arthrocentesis): In this surgery, a small procedure is followed where a needle is inserted into the TMJ to treat debris, joint fluid, or leveling the swelling part.
• Keyhole surgery (Arthroscopy): Using a tiny camera during surgery to treat the affected part, the surgeon removed the affected tissues. 
• Arthroplasty (Joint replacements): Replacing the affected joint with artificial joints.
• Osteotomy (Bone reshaping): For curing TMJ reshaping the bone is also relaxing from disease.

Natural and holistic remedies for TMJ

Many Australians prefer natural remedies for long-term relief. Some effective holistic approaches include:

• Acupuncture – can help relieve jaw pain and reduce muscle tension.
• Herbal anti-inflammatories – turmeric and ginger may help reduce joint inflammation.
• Essential oils – lavender and peppermint oil can be massaged into the jaw to relieve tension.

How long does it take to cure TMJ?

The time it takes to cure TMJ depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used:

• Mild TMJ (1-3 months): can be managed with lifestyle changes and physiotherapy.
• Moderate TMJ (3-6 months): requires physiotherapy, dental splints, and stress management.
• Severe TMJ (6+ months): may need medical interventions or surgery.

Seeking treatment early can help speed up recovery and prevent long-term damage.

Where to get TMJ treatment in Australia

Australians suffering from TMJ can seek treatment from:

• Dentists specialising in TMJ disorders – many dental clinics offer occlusal splints and orthodontic solutions.
• Physiotherapists – specialising in jaw and musculoskeletal therapy.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons – for severe cases requiring surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Managing TMJ disorder is essential not only for oral health but also for overall well-being. While there is no permanent cure, treatment options can significantly reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling. The condition often develops due to jaw trauma or excessive stress, and recovery time varies depending on the treatment method. Non-surgical treatments may take several weeks to months, whereas recovery from surgical procedures can take up to a year. By following the recommended therapies and lifestyle adjustments, individuals with TMJ can improve their quality of life and minimise discomfort.

Note: This article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.