Top Questions on Managing TMJ

Dr. Karun GuptaBDS, Non-Resident J.R. in Dept. of Orthodontics, Certified oral implantologist, Advanced Aesthetics, Digital Smile DesignerDentist

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It's understandable that you're considering jaw realignment surgery as a potential option to improve your facial symmetry for modeling. However, it's important to approach this decision with careful consideration and informed judgment. Here's some information to help you navigate your options: jaw realignment surgery: price: the cost of jaw realignment surgery can vary greatly depending on several factors, including your location, the complexity of the procedure, and surgeon fees. A rough estimate might range from $10,000 to $30,000 in the us, but consulting with multiple surgeons for specific quotes is necessary. Best age: generally, the ideal age for orthognathic jaw surgery (jaw realignment) is between late teens and mid-20s when facial bones have finished growing. However, the specific recommended age depends on individual circumstances and should be discussed with a qualified surgeon. Worthiness: deciding whether surgery is "worth it" is a personal decision. Carefully weigh the potential benefits (improved facial symmetry, confidence boost) against the risks (pain, discomfort, recovery time, potential complications). Consider consulting with a facial plastic surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon for a professional assessment of your specific situation and potential outcomes. Natural exercises: unfortunately, there are no scientifically proven exercises that can effectively realign the jaw. Facial muscles primarily control facial expressions, not bone structure. While some exercises might temporarily change your jawline appearance, they cannot permanently alter bone position. Recommended approach: consultation: before anything else, consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon or facial plastic surgeon for a professional evaluation. They can assess your jaw alignment, discuss surgical options and risks, and provide realistic expectations. Explore alternatives: consider less invasive options like cosmetic dentistry procedures (veneers, braces) or makeup contouring before committing to surgery. Focus on overall health: remember, true beauty lies in confidence and self-acceptance. Focus on developing your personality, talent, and overall health and wellbeing. Modeling agencies often look beyond purely physical attributes. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to undergo jaw realignment surgery is a personal one. Weigh the potential benefits and risks carefully, seek professional advice, and consider alternative options before making a decision. Remember, true confidence and beauty come from within. I hope this information helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and well-being. 

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Dr. Karun GuptaBDS, Non-Resident J.R. in Dept. of Orthodontics, Certified oral implantologist, Advanced Aesthetics, Digital Smile DesignerDentist

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I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing jaw locking. This can be a very painful and frustrating symptom. Unfortunately, I cannot provide medical advice or diagnose your condition. It is important to see a doctor or dentist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. However, I can provide you with some general information about jaw locking, which may be helpful: causes: jaw locking can be caused by a variety of factors, including temporomandibular joint disorder (tmj), arthritis, muscle tension, or trauma. Symptoms: in addition to jaw locking, you may also experience pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, difficulty chewing, and headaches. Treatment: treatment for jaw locking will vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, home remedies such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers may be helpful. In other cases, more specialized treatment such as physical therapy, medication, or surgery may be necessary. Here are some exercises that may help to improve jaw mobility, but please be sure to consult with a doctor or dentist before trying them: gentle jaw stretches: open your mouth as wide as you comfortably can and hold for a few seconds. Repeat 10 times. Side-to-side jaw movements: move your jaw slowly from side to side, opening and closing your mouth slightly with each movement. Repeat 10 times on each side. Tongue exercises: stick your tongue out as far as you can and hold for a few seconds. Repeat 10 times. It is important to note that these exercises should not be painful. If you experience any pain, stop immediately and consult with a doctor or dentist. I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Image of sidetoside jaw movements exerciseopens in a new window www.jawflex.com sidetoside jaw movements exercise. 

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Dr. Karun GuptaBDS, Non-Resident J.R. in Dept. of Orthodontics, Certified oral implantologist, Advanced Aesthetics, Digital Smile DesignerDentist

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I understand your concern about the swollen and painful area under your left jawline. While I can't provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical examination, I can offer some information and advice that may help: swollen lymph nodes: it's likely that the lump under your jaw is a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and can swell in response to various causes, including infections, allergies, and sometimes, more serious conditions. Swollen lymph nodes due to common infections like the cold or flu usually resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, if the swelling persists for more than two weeks, grows rapidly, becomes hard and fixed, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, it's crucial to see a doctor for further evaluation. Gum pain: the pain in your gums while brushing on the lower left jaw could be related to the swollen lymph node, possibly due to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. It could also be a sign of gum disease, a cavity, or another dental issue. If the gum pain persists or worsens, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a checkup. Life-threatening: while it's always good to be cautious, it's unlikely that your swollen lymph node is life-threatening, especially given that you haven't experienced any other significant symptoms. Recommendations: monitor the swelling: observe if the lump grows or changes in texture, and take note of any new symptoms like fever, night sweats, or difficulty swallowing. Warm compress: apply a warm compress to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Practice good oral hygiene: maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly. This can help reduce gum inflammation and prevent potential dental issues. See a doctor: if the swelling doesn't improve within a few weeks, grows rapidly, becomes hard and fixed, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. See a dentist: schedule an appointment with your dentist to assess the gum pain and rule out any dental issues. Remember, I am not a medical professional and this information should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. It's important to seek proper medical attention for accurate diagnosis and treatment. I hope this information is helpful and puts your mind at ease. Please feel free to ask any further questions you may have. 

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Dr. Anshuman SahuMBBSGeneral Physician

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Lymphadenitis or inflamed lymph nodes could indicate a cause of an underlying disease. I will need to rule out the cause before I make a diagnosis. Please take a picture of it and send it on a text consult to begin. 

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Dr. Karun GuptaBDS, Non-Resident J.R. in Dept. of Orthodontics, Certified oral implantologist, Advanced Aesthetics, Digital Smile DesignerDentist

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I'm so sorry to hear you've been feeling so unwell and in pain with your tmj disorder for the past week. Pain while eating and feeling generally unwell are definitely unpleasant symptoms. While I can't diagnose your situation or offer medical advice, I can provide some information and resources that might be helpful: understanding tmj pain: tmj disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, including jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, headaches, and difficulty chewing. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person and can fluctuate over time. It's important to remember that you're not alone - tmj disorders are quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Seeking help: consulting a doctor or dentist: it's important to reach out to a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They can assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action, which may include medications, physical therapy, or other interventions. Considering pain management strategies: in the meantime, there are some things you can do to manage your pain, such as applying ice or heat to the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain medications (as recommended by your doctor), and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing. Exploring self-care options: eating soft foods, getting regular rest, and avoiding activities that aggravate your pain are also important to consider. Here are some additional resources that you might find helpful: the national institute of dental and craniofacial research: url Gov/ the american academy of oral and maxillofacial surgery: url/ the tmj association: url Org/ remember, it's important to prioritize your health and seek professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment. The information I provided is meant to be helpful and informative, but it's not a substitute for medical advice. I truly hope you feel better soon! 

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Rakshana DeviBachelor of Dental SurgeryDentist

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Hello. I would suggest you to visit the oral surgeon in person. Don't worry. Certain people will have tmj dislocations. And difficulties in jaw movements. They are due to stress, bruxism or any other medical history luke arthritis. Avoid being stress. Check from bruxism so tmjoint exercises. Thank you. 

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Dr. Desh DixchhaBDS , Advanced Course in Endodontics, pg Diploma in Advance course of endodonticsDentist

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Hi Mr. lybrate-user the clicking and poping sound mainly due to erupting wisdom tooth (3rd molar) or temporomandibular joint problem. Get your opg and lateral cephalogram radiograph done. Visit dental clinc. Dentist will help you about your problem. 

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Dr. Sanjeev PandeyBDSDentist

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If pain in your left side solder neck and jaw it can be cardiac problem go to your neraby physician to rule out cardiac problems. If there is no cardiac problem then go to nearby dentist. 

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Dr. Isha MalhotraBDSDentist

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there might be some cavity or your third molar must be erupting.. kindly get an xray done to understand condition better... and have better insight to your problem 

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Dr. Mihika BalaBachelor of Dental Surgery, Master of Dental Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryOral And Maxillofacial Surgeon

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Hello lybrate-user. By the terms used in the question, it seems that you are someone from dental fraternity. In my opinion, firstly check for the following: - tenderness in muscles of mastication - clicking of tmj and deviation/deflection of mouth on opening and closing - any parafunctional habits - any emotional stress that the patient might be going through since it seems mostly due to muscular injury during extraction, I am suggesting the following line of treatment. Do continue with the warm saline rinses and myospas forte. Diazepam 10 mg orally once daily every night before sleep could be added for 14 days along with isometric jaw exercises (4-5 seconds in each direction per session, 4-5 sessions per day). Also tell the patient to perform ice-cream stick exercise to slowly increase the mouth opening. If any parafunctional habits are there then stoppage of the same followed by intraoral appliances like night-guard can be given. Review the patient after 14 days. If any clicking in tmj is present then get an opg done. Reassure the patient since having discomfort even after 2 weeks might get them stressed about the same. For further discussion, feel free to drop in for private conversation. 

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