Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides TMJ Treatment?
A dentist or a primary care doctor usually starts TMJ care. An orofacial pain specialist, who is trained in face and jaw pain, or a physical therapist may help too. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Temporomandibular disorders, or TMDs, are a group of more than 30 conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, also called the jaw joint. Experts recommend avoiding treatments that permanently change the jaw joints, teeth, or bite, or involve surgery.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Treatment can help with symptoms such as these.
- Pain in the chewing muscles or jaw joint is the most common symptom.
- Limited movement or locking of the jaw.
- Painful clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth.
Clicking or popping sounds without pain are common, are considered normal, and do not need treatment.
How to prepare
Your visit may include the following.
- Your doctor or dentist will note your symptoms and take a detailed medical history.
- They may also recommend imaging tests such as an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan.
- There is no widely accepted, standard test for TMDs.
- Ask about simpler treatments and try those first.
- Before any surgery or other procedure, get opinions from more than one provider.
What happens during it
Start with simple treatments first. Your doctor or dentist may have you do the following.
- Eat soft foods.
- Apply heat or cold to the face in combination with exercises to gently stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles.
- Take over-the-counter pain medicines, like ibuprofen.
- Reduce habits such as jaw clenching, gum chewing, or nail biting.
- Practice meditation and relaxation techniques.
If these steps do not help, or if your doctor or dentist identifies a specific type of TMD, other treatments may be recommended.
- Your doctor or dentist may recommend medicines to treat your symptoms.
- In manual therapy, a therapist uses their hands to stretch the soft tissues and muscles around the joint.
- Intraoral appliances are devices that fit over the teeth and protect the teeth.
- In arthrocentesis, a needle is used to push liquid into the TMJ.
- During arthroscopy, the doctor inserts an instrument with a tiny video camera into the jaw joint.
- Open surgery gives access to the TMJ through a cut next to the ear.
Recovery
Many jaw joint and muscle problems are temporary and do not get worse, so simple treatment may be all that is necessary. Signs and symptoms of TMD go away without treatment for many people. If an intraoral appliance causes pain, stop using it and consult your dentist or doctor. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Risks and side effects
Some medicines used for TMDs can lead to addiction or have other serious side effects. There is not a lot of evidence on whether intraoral appliances improve TMD pain. There is insufficient evidence that treatments that change the teeth and bite work for TMDs, and in some cases they make the problem worse. There are no long-term research studies on the safety of open surgery for TMDs or on how well it works to relieve symptoms. Surgery makes permanent changes to your joint.
Who performs it
Consider seeking a second opinion from an orofacial pain specialist, if possible. If possible, seek an opinion from a surgeon who specializes in treating TMDs.
Common questions
Will TMJ problems go away on their own?
Many TMDs last only a short time and go away on their own. In some cases they can become chronic, or long-lasting.
Does a bad bite cause TMJ problems?
Research does not support the belief that a bad bite or orthodontic treatment (such as braces) causes TMDs.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be considered if the joint is destroyed in a way other procedures cannot fix. It may also be considered if symptoms are severe despite other treatments.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research - TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)
- MedlinePlus - Temporomandibular Disorders
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
