Prognosis

There is no known “cure” for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), but it can be well-controlled with proper treatment. TMD can be temporary with symptoms that come and go. Or it can be a chronic problem with pain that becomes more severe over time. People with TMD must learn how to manage their disorder. Most experts strongly recommend conservative treatments such as physical therapy, jaw exercises, medication and complementary therapies. Even when TMD symptoms are long-lasting and severe, most people with TMD do not need invasive treatment. Extensive research is being done to find the best treatments for TMD.