Many individuals wonder whether their face will look or feel different after TMJ treatment. This concern is completely understandable, as the jaw muscles play an important role in facial balance, movement, and comfort. Some people may experience short-term sensations, such as mild swelling or tightness in the area, which usually improve as healing progresses.
TMJ disorder treatments aim to reduce jaw muscle tension and ease discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint issues. As these muscles relax and adapt, temporary changes in jaw movement or bite position can sometimes occur. These responses vary between individuals and are part of the body’s normal adjustment process.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how TMJ management may influence facial movement and appearance, what temporary effects can occur as the jaw muscles recover, and how the adjustment period usually unfolds. The information provided is intended for general understanding only and should not replace personalised guidance from a qualified dental professional.
Contents Navigation
- 1 Summary of the Content
- 2 What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
- 3 Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Injections
- 4 Will TMJ Injections Change Facial Movement?
- 5 Possible Experiences After Treatment
- 6 How Long Until My Face Feels Normal Again?
- 7 When to Contact Your Dentist
- 8 Final Thoughts
- 9 Our Practitioners
Summary of the Content
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) involves discomfort or dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, sometimes causing pain, stiffness, or clicking when moving the jaw.
- TMJ disorder treatments are designed to help reduce jaw muscle tension and support improved comfort and function where excessive tightness is present.
- Some individuals may notice temporary differences in jaw movement or muscle activity, though these changes are usually mild and vary between people.
- Muscle relaxation can influence chewing or clenching habits, but these effects are usually short-lived as the muscles adjust.
- Individual responses depend on several factors, including dosage, muscle strength, and pre-existing jaw or muscle conditions.
- Following treatment, some people experience minor tenderness or temporary weakness in the injection area.
- These short-term effects generally improve within days or weeks as the body adapts.
- Patients experiencing ongoing discomfort or unexpected facial changes are advised to contact their dentist for further review.
What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw, or mandible, to the skull and allows smooth jaw movement for eating, speaking, and yawning. When this joint or the surrounding jaw muscles are strained or inflamed, it can lead to a group of conditions known as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). These disorders can affect how the jaw functions and may cause discomfort in nearby areas such as the face, neck, or head.
TMD can develop from a combination of factors, including teeth clenching, arthritis, jaw injury, or prolonged muscle tension. Recognising its early signs helps individuals understand when to seek professional assessment and why TMJ management or treatment planning may be considered.
Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include the following:
- Jaw pain and stiffness:
Many people experience tenderness near the jaw joint, which can extend to the ear, temples, or neck. Discomfort may worsen with movement, such as chewing or yawning. Persistent jaw tension can also contribute to facial pain or headaches. - Clicking or popping sounds:
The temporomandibular joint may make noises when opening or closing the mouth. These sounds are not always painful or concerning, but ongoing clicking may lead a dentist or healthcare professional to check joint movement. - Limited or uneven jaw movement:
Some people find it difficult to open their mouth fully or notice the jaw moving to one side. This may result from muscle tightness, inflammation, or internal cartilage changes within the joint. - Tenderness and swelling:
Localised tenderness or mild swelling around the lower jaw, chin, or facial muscles can occur after prolonged clenching or grinding of the teeth. These sensations are sometimes linked with stress, sleep issues, or muscle overuse. - Associated symptoms:
People with TMJ disorders may also experience ear discomfort, dizziness, or a temporary locking sensation in the jaw. Some notice myofascial pain, neck strain, or headaches related to prolonged jaw tension.
Temporomandibular joint disorders can cause discomfort, but many cases improve with supportive measures, such as jaw exercises, short periods of rest, and eating soft foods. When symptoms persist or worsen, a healthcare professional can discuss further treatment options based on individual needs and diagnosis.
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Injections
TMJ disorder management may involve different approaches to help ease discomfort, reduce jaw muscle tension, and improve movement when symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or tightness interfere with daily activities. These treatment options are usually considered when conservative measures, such as splints, physiotherapy, exercises, or medication, have not provided adequate relief.
Depending on the individual diagnosis, your dentist or healthcare professional may recommend therapies that:
- Reduce jaw muscle activity:
Targeted techniques or prescribed therapies can help relax overactive jaw muscles caused by teeth clenching, grinding, or bruxism, supporting smoother jaw movement. - Address joint inflammation:
In some cases, clinical treatments focus on reducing inflammation within the temporomandibular joint to ease discomfort related to arthritis or joint strain. - Improve jaw mobility:
Reducing muscle tension and managing inflammation can assist in restoring smoother jaw function and minimising strain on surrounding tissues. - Support short-term comfort:
TMJ management plans often combine several evidence-based approaches to promote comfort and aid recovery.
These treatments form part of an individualised care plan developed after a thorough examination and diagnosis by a qualified dental or healthcare professional. The suitable approach depends on factors such as the cause of discomfort, muscle condition, and overall health. Your healthcare professional will explain available options and discuss possible benefits and risks before proceeding with any specific treatment.
Will TMJ Injections Change Facial Movement?
Some patients may notice temporary adjustments in jaw movement after TMJ disorder treatment, but these effects are usually subtle. The temporomandibular joint and surrounding jaw muscles may respond differently as they relax and adapt, leading to short-term sensations, such as mild stiffness or uneven motion. These changes often occur as the body adjusts to reduced jaw tension. Each patient’s outcome differs, and a dentist or healthcare professional reviews progress as part of their TMJ pain management plan.
Why Muscle Relaxation Affects Appearance
TMJ disorder treatments focus on reducing tension in the jaw muscles that contribute to temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Relaxing these muscles can influence how the lower jaw, facial muscles, and temporomandibular joint move, occasionally affecting chewing or speaking for a short period.
When the jaw muscles begin to relax, patients may notice several temporary changes in comfort and movement, such as the following:
- Decreasing strain on the jaw:
Reduced tension may lessen pressure caused by teeth clenching or grinding, allowing the jaw joint to move with less stiffness. As the muscles relax, patients often find it easier to open the mouth, chew, and yawn without discomfort. - Improving coordination:
When overused muscles rest, the lower jaw may regain smoother motion and better alignment. This helps reduce strain on surrounding tissues and can relieve tightness that contributes to facial pain or headaches. - Reducing facial tightness:
Easing jaw and facial muscle tension can help relieve sensations of tightness around the chin, mandible, and jawbone. Eating soft foods and resting the jaw can also help reduce symptoms during recovery. - Minimising internal pressure:
Reducing overworked muscle activity may lessen internal stress within the temporomandibular joint, improving the ability to move without clicking or locking. This process is temporary and part of how the body restores normal function.
These adjustments are generally mild and temporary. Many people notice that jaw movement, speech, and chewing return to normal within a few weeks as muscle activity balances again.
Factors That Influence Individual Response
Individual responses to TMJ disorder management vary depending on several physical and lifestyle factors. The exact cause of each person’s jaw pain, inflammation, or dysfunction determines how the treatment works and how long improvement lasts.
Some of the common influences on recovery and outcomes include the following:
- Treatment approach and timing:
The type and frequency of professional treatments can influence how long the jaw muscles remain relaxed. A dentist or healthcare professional will determine the appropriate schedule as part of the overall management plan. - Muscle strength and activity:
Jaw muscles involved in clenching, bruxism, or overuse may take longer to relax. Stronger muscles can sometimes lead to more noticeable stiffness before movement improves. - Pre-existing conditions:
Arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or previous injury to the jaw joint can affect recovery time. These conditions may increase inflammation or stiffness that requires monitoring during TMJ management. - Lifestyle factors:
Sleep quality, stress levels, and teeth grinding can influence muscle tension and delay recovery. Addressing these habits may help reduce symptoms of TMJ disorder and improve long-term comfort. - Combination with other treatments:
TMJ management plans often include physiotherapy, splints, exercises, dry needling, or acupuncture. These options are designed to reduce symptoms, restore normal jaw movement, and prevent recurrence of muscle problems.
Each patient’s diagnosis and progress are reviewed over time to determine the appropriate next steps. Follow-up appointments allow the healthcare professional to discuss any soreness, tenderness, or side effects that may occur and identify whether further management or other treatments are needed.
Possible Experiences After Treatment
After TMJ disorder treatment, patients may experience a range of sensations as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), surrounding jaw muscles, and facial tissues adjust. Mild discomfort, muscle tightness, or slight swelling can occur as the body responds to the therapeutic process. These experiences are usually temporary and reviewed by a dentist or healthcare professional during follow-up to monitor recovery, discuss symptoms, and determine if further TMJ management or other supportive care options are appropriate.
Short-Term Effects
In the days immediately following TMJ treatment, the jaw joint and facial tissues may respond to reduced tension and inflammation. These early sensations often occur as the muscles adapt and movement patterns begin to change.
Common short-term effects may include the following:
- Mild soreness or tenderness:
Localised discomfort may appear around the affected area, such as the lower jaw or chin. The sensation can extend to nearby facial muscles or the temples and generally settles as inflammation reduces. - Temporary stiffness:
The jaw may feel tight or restricted when opening or closing the mouth. This stiffness is often linked to temporary changes in jaw movement and usually improves with rest or light exercises. - Minor swelling or bruising:
Some individuals may notice mild swelling, tenderness, or slight bruising around the jaw or cheek area after injection. These reactions are part of the body’s healing process and usually fade within a few days. - Temporary muscle fatigue:
Some patients notice their jaw muscles feel slightly less active for a short time. This may affect the ability to chew firm food or open the mouth widely, but function usually returns as the muscles recover. - Headaches or facial tension:
Adjustments in jaw alignment can occasionally lead to mild headaches caused by muscle strain. These headaches are temporary and tend to decrease as jaw tension reduces.
These short-term sensations generally subside within several days to weeks. Many people can resume regular activities like speaking, eating soft foods, and yawning comfortably once muscle function returns to balance.
Longer-Term Adjustments
As recovery continues, some patients notice gradual improvements in comfort and jaw function over several weeks. The temporomandibular joint, jaw muscles, and surrounding structures often adapt progressively as inflammation subsides and normal movement patterns return.
Longer-term adjustments may include the following:
- Reduced jaw tension:
As excessive clenching or teeth grinding eases, the jaw and facial muscles may feel more relaxed. This can make actions such as talking, yawning, or chewing food feel smoother and more comfortable. - Smoother jaw movement:
Many patients observe that their jaw movement becomes more even and less restricted. Reduced strain in the temporomandibular joint can decrease clicking, locking, or stiffness during function. - Less facial pain or tightness:
Decreased inflammation in the facial muscles may ease tightness, tenderness, or myofascial pain. These improvements can contribute to better comfort during daily activities and rest. - Better sleep and rest:
With reduced clenching or bruxism, patients may experience fewer sleep disturbances linked to jaw tension. Improved rest can also help minimise strain in the neck, forehead, and jawbone area. - Fewer headaches or strain:
As the jaw muscles adapt and balance returns, headaches caused by muscle overuse or jaw tension may occur less often. This can help reduce facial discomfort and improve overall function.
The duration and degree of these changes vary between individuals. Factors such as muscle strength, inflammation, stress, arthritis, or other conditions influence how recovery progresses. Regular review by a dentist or healthcare professional allows progress to be discussed and any ongoing soreness, side effects, or TMJ-related symptoms to be managed appropriately.
How Long Until My Face Feels Normal Again?
Recovery after TMJ disorder treatment differs from person to person and depends on factors such as muscle activity, jaw movement, and overall health. Some patients notice improvement within a few days, while others may take several weeks for the temporomandibular joint and jaw muscles to adapt. Regular follow-up appointments with a dentist or healthcare professional allow recovery progress to be reviewed, symptoms discussed, and any further TMJ management options considered.
Typical experiences and timeframes may include the following:
- First few days:
Mild soreness, tenderness, or stiffness may occur around the jaw joint and facial muscles. These sensations are temporary and often improve with rest, soft foods, and light jaw movement. - Within the first week:
Some minor swelling, bruising, or temporary muscle fatigue can appear as the body adjusts. These short-term effects usually ease as inflammation settles and jaw movement becomes more comfortable. - Two to three weeks:
Patients often find that jaw tension reduces and movement feels smoother. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may function more freely, making activities like chewing, yawning, and speaking easier. - Three to six weeks:
Continued adaptation may lead to less facial discomfort and reduced strain on surrounding muscles. Some patients may notice fewer headaches or facial pain as muscle tension decreases. - Beyond six weeks:
Many people regain comfortable jaw function and notice that tightness or stiffness occurs less often. However, individual recovery times vary, and ongoing TMJ-related symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
The healing process following TMJ treatment is gradual. Recovery can depend on muscle condition, stress, arthritis, and other contributing factors. Regular consultations with a dentist or healthcare professional help monitor progress, discuss individual needs, and determine whether additional supportive therapies, exercises, or management approaches may further reduce symptoms.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Keeping in contact with your dentist or healthcare professional during TMJ disorder recovery is an important part of managing your care. While many people notice gradual improvement after TMJ management or therapy, some may continue to experience jaw discomfort or new sensations as the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles adjust. Among various conditions, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) can affect the jaw joint, facial muscles, and movement, sometimes resulting in stiffness or pain that benefits from professional review.
You are advised to contact your dentist or healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent jaw pain or discomfort:
Ongoing soreness, stiffness, or facial pain that does not ease over time may indicate inflammation or muscle strain in the jaw joint. A professional assessment allows possible causes to be discussed and management options considered. - Limited jaw movement or locking:
Difficulty opening your mouth or sensations of the jaw locking may be linked to TMJ dysfunction. Early review helps reduce strain on the jaw muscles and guides exercises or other treatments that may improve movement. - Swelling or bruising that worsens:
If swelling, redness, or bruising around the jaw, chin, or gum area increases after several days, this may require monitoring. Although these effects rarely occur, professional evaluation helps determine whether additional care is needed. - Headaches or facial tension:
Headaches related to jaw tension, clenching, or grinding may persist if muscle activity remains unbalanced. Discussing these symptoms with your dentist can help determine whether further TMJ management or other therapies could reduce discomfort. - Changes in bite or facial sensation:
A change in how your teeth meet, or sensations such as tingling, tightness, or tenderness around the jawbone, chin, or facial muscles, should be reviewed. These may occur as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and nearby tissues adapt during recovery. - Concerns about recovery time or other symptoms:
If stiffness, jaw tenderness, or other symptoms continue beyond several weeks—or if new signs appear—contact your healthcare professional. Follow-up appointments help support accurate diagnosis and ongoing management of temporomandibular joint disorders.
Regular follow-up appointments are an important part of managing TMJ disorders. Your dentist or healthcare professional can monitor recovery, discuss progress, and determine whether other evidence-based therapies may assist in restoring comfortable jaw movement over time.
Final Thoughts
TMJ disorder treatments are one of several options that may assist in managing tension and discomfort linked with temporomandibular joint disorders. While temporary changes in facial movement can occur during recovery, these effects are generally mild and short-term. The way TMJ management works varies for each person, depending on muscle condition, inflammation, and overall health.
Many people notice gradual improvement as jaw muscles adapt and movement becomes more comfortable. Ongoing follow-up with a dentist or healthcare professional helps review progress, monitor other symptoms, and determine whether additional therapies or management approaches may be appropriate. Because the exact cause of TMJ dysfunction differs between individuals, consistent review and assessment are important in achieving balanced and functional jaw movement.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, stiffness, or other symptoms related to temporomandibular joint disorders, you can arrange a consultation with My Dentist Blackwood for a professional assessment. This allows care to be tailored to your individual needs and helps determine which TMJ management options may be suitable for you. Each person’s experience is unique, and seeking professional advice is a reliable way to make sound decisions about managing TMJ symptoms.
Our Practitioners
All TMJ consultations and injection procedures at My Dentist Blackwood are performed by registered dental practitioners with the Dental Board of Australia.
- Dr. Tina Le — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0001411332)
- Dr. Diana Castrillon — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0002170625)
- Dr. Emma Chin — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0002134625)
- Dr. Liesl Collins — General Dentist (Registration No. DEN0001659430)
Each practitioner is registered under the National Law and provides care in accordance with AHPRA’s professional and advertising standards.
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