Q My facial asymmetry keeps getting worse and my mouth opens less and less. If I just leave it, could the joint be destroyed?
A Worsening asymmetry and decreasing mouth opening are warning signs of joint destruction (bone resorption, ankylosis). You need professional care immediately, including imaging tests (panoramic X-ray, MRI).
Detailed Answer
If temporomandibular joint disorder is left untreated, the joint cartilage wears down and the bone is resorbed, deforming the head of the jawbone. Progressive joint destruction can make facial asymmetry permanent, and in severe cases the joint stiffens to a state where the mouth barely opens. If symptoms are steadily progressing, never leave them unattended.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, when progressive asymmetry or joint destruction is suspected, we prioritize collaboration with oral and maxillofacial surgery or orthopedics. After the structural problem has stabilized, a stepwise approach in which Korean medicine treatment takes charge of pain management, functional recovery, and recurrence prevention is safe. In such cases, carelessly self-correcting the jaw is very dangerous.
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