If you’ve tried exercises, nightguards, medications, and lifestyle changes but still struggle with persistent jaw pain, you’re not alone. Chronic TMJ pain can interfere with sleep, eating, speaking, and daily comfort — and sometimes first-line treatments simply aren’t enough.
At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the South Shore, we evaluate patients whose symptoms haven’t improved and explore advanced options designed to provide meaningful, lasting relief.
Why TMJ Pain Becomes Chronic
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction can develop for several reasons. Repetitive strain from clenching or grinding, trauma to the jaw, bite imbalance, stress-related muscle tension, or underlying inflammation may all contribute.
When the jaw joint and surrounding muscles are constantly overworked, inflammation can build. Over time, this may lead to:
- Ongoing jaw pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Ear pressure or facial tension
- Pain when chewing
- Clicking or locking of the jaw
- Limited jaw movement
For many patients, conservative TMJ treatment provides relief. However, when pain persists despite appropriate first-line care, advanced therapies may be considered.
First-Line TMJ Treatment Options
Before considering injections or advanced therapies, we typically evaluate and optimize foundational treatment approaches, including:
- Custom oral appliances for clenching and grinding
- At-home jaw exercises
- Anti-inflammatory support
- Physical therapy
- Stress reduction strategies
- Dietary modifications
Many patients experience significant improvement with these approaches. If symptoms continue, further evaluation may be necessary to identify whether inflammation within muscles, ligaments, or the joint itself is contributing to the pain.
When Injections for TMJ May Be Considered
For patients who do not respond to conservative care, certain types of therapeutic injections may be appropriate. These are carefully selected based on diagnosis and joint condition.
Jaw Muscle Injections (Trigger Point Therapy)
Muscle-based TMJ pain is often caused by spasms and chronic tension. Trigger point injections, sometimes referred to as dry needling, can help release tight jaw muscles and reduce referred pain to the temples, ears, or teeth.
By reducing muscular tension, these injections may improve jaw mobility and decrease headache frequency.
Tendon and Ligament Injections
If inflammation involves the supporting ligaments or tendons of the jaw, targeted injections may help reduce irritation and support healing. In some cases:
- Prolotherapy may stimulate tissue repair
- Anti-inflammatory injections may reduce persistent inflammation
These treatments are used selectively and only when clinically appropriate.
Joint Injections for TMJ Pain
When the temporomandibular joint itself is inflamed, joint-based injections may be considered. These may include:
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Hyaluronic acid injections to improve joint lubrication
Hyaluronic acid supports the natural synovial fluid that cushions the joint. In patients with joint degeneration or trauma, improving lubrication may reduce pain and mechanical symptoms such as clicking or grinding.
Each case is carefully evaluated to determine suitability and minimize risk.
Emerging Therapies for TMJ Relief
Research into regenerative therapies continues to evolve. Emerging approaches involving biologic or tissue-supportive injections show promise for certain patients, though candidacy depends on diagnosis and overall health.
The goal is always the same: reduce inflammation, restore function, and improve quality of life.
When to Seek Advanced TMJ Treatment on the South Shore
If you are experiencing:
- Chronic jaw pain that hasn’t improved
- Migraines associated with jaw tension
- Locking or restricted jaw movement
- Persistent joint clicking with pain
- TMJ symptoms affecting sleep
It may be time for a more in-depth evaluation.
At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the South Shore, we focus on accurate diagnosis and individualized care planning so treatment targets the true source of your discomfort.
Schedule a Consultation
Living with ongoing TMJ pain can be exhausting. If conservative therapies haven’t provided relief, a comprehensive assessment can help determine whether advanced treatment options may be appropriate.
Contact the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the South Shore today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for lasting TMJ pain relief.