What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD) in children, families usually receive guidance on managing symptoms and improving jaw function at home. The healthcare provider may suggest exercises, pain relief methods, and lifestyle changes to reduce jaw strain. Sometimes, they recommend follow-up visits or in-person exams if symptoms do not improve or worsen. Telemedicine can help identify when urgent care is needed. It also allows families to ask questions and get advice without traveling. However, some tests or treatments require a visit to a clinic or hospital. Understanding what to expect after the visit helps families support their child’s recovery and know when to seek more care. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has sudden inability to open or close the mouth fully — seek urgent medical care.
• Jaw area shows swelling, redness, or warmth with fever — contact healthcare provider immediately.
• Severe jaw pain that does not improve with home care or worsens rapidly — get prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of jaw pain and limited movement
• Providing education on home care and symptom management
• Monitoring mild to moderate symptoms over time
• Answering questions about TMJ/TMD and treatment options

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical jaw examinations requiring hands-on assessment
• Ordering or interpreting specialized imaging tests
• Providing emergency care for severe jaw locking or infection
• Fitting or adjusting dental devices or splints

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your video or phone visit, your healthcare provider will usually explain the next steps. This might include simple jaw exercises to do at home, tips to avoid chewing hard foods, and ways to manage pain, such as using warm compresses. They may also suggest keeping a diary of symptoms to track any changes. Sometimes, they will schedule a follow-up appointment to check progress or recommend an in-person visit if needed.

Common Home Care Tips for TMJ/TMD in Children

Home care often focuses on reducing jaw strain and easing discomfort. Tips may include:

When You Might Need In-Person Care

Telemedicine is helpful for many TMJ/TMD concerns, but some situations require a face-to-face exam. These include:

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your telemedicine visit:

Aftercare: What Families Can Do

After the visit, follow the provider’s advice carefully. Keep track of your child’s symptoms and any changes. Use recommended exercises and pain relief methods as instructed. If symptoms worsen or new problems appear, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Maintain scheduled follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection for the visit.
• Prepare a list of your child’s symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Write down any questions or concerns you have about TMJ/TMD.
• Have a device ready that can show your child’s jaw movement on camera if possible.
• Ensure your device is fully charged or plugged in before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for jaw exercises and pain management.
• Use warm compresses as recommended to ease muscle tension.
• Avoid hard, chewy foods and activities that strain the jaw.
• Keep a symptom diary to track any changes or improvements.
• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Seek prompt care if red-flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD) in children?

TMJ/TMD is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles around it. In children, it can cause jaw pain, difficulty opening the mouth, or clicking sounds when moving the jaw. It often results from jaw strain, injury, or teeth grinding.

Can telemedicine visits diagnose TMJ/TMD?

Telemedicine can help healthcare providers learn about symptoms and suggest possible TMJ/TMD, but a full diagnosis may require an in-person exam or imaging tests. Telemedicine is useful for initial advice and follow-up care.

What should I do if my child’s jaw pain gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your child’s pain worsens, or they develop new symptoms like jaw locking, swelling, or fever, contact your healthcare provider promptly. These signs may need urgent in-person evaluation.

Are jaw exercises safe for my child?

Yes, when recommended by a healthcare provider, gentle jaw exercises can help improve movement and reduce pain. Always follow the instructions given during your visit.

How long does it take for TMJ/TMD symptoms to improve?

Improvement times vary. Many children feel better within a few weeks of home care, but some may need longer or additional treatment. Regular follow-up helps track progress.

Sources

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Temporomandibular Disorders — Mayo Clinic.
3. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. TMJ Disorders — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.