Chart for Summary of Treatments for Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs)
Simple
Simplest treatments; try these treatments first.
- Eating soft foods.
- Applying heat or cold to face.
- Jaw stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Short-term over-the-counter NSAIDs.
- Self-management.
Intermediate
Could be prescribed by doctor or dentist as a second step if simpler treatments do not help.
- Behavioral health approaches (usually offered by a psychologist).
- Physical therapy, including manual therapy (needs referral by doctor or dentist).
- Prescription medications.
- Intraoral appliances.
- Complementary treatments.
Moderately Complex
Proceed with caution if these treatments are recommended. They involve going into the jaw joint using needles or other instruments.
- Prolotherapy.
- Arthrocentesis.
- Arthroscopy.
Most Complex
Only consider these if doctor or dentist recommends as a last resort; ask for second opinion. Involves direct access and permanent changes to the jaw joint.
- Surgery, including TMJ implants.
Botulinum toxin Type A injections and occlusal treatments are not listed in this table because:
- Researchers do not have conclusive evidence that botulinum toxin Type A injections into the chewing muscles help with TMDs.
- Occlusal treatments including placing crowns, grinding down teeth, and orthodontic treatments do not help TMDs and can make the problem worse.
Last Reviewed
January 2022