Can chewing muscle pain heal on its own?

Generally speaking, whether pain in the chewing muscles can heal on its own depends on the specific underlying cause. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Yes

Pain in the chewing muscles may sometimes result from mild muscle fatigue or overuse, such as prolonged chewing of hard foods or excessive talking. In such cases, the pain typically resolves on its own within a few days to a week through rest, reducing chewing activities, applying heat or cold compresses, and gently massaging the affected jaw muscle area.

2. No

However, if the chewing muscle pain is caused by conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, dental issues like impacted or inflamed wisdom teeth, nerve diseases, or muscle inflammation, spontaneous recovery cannot be expected. In these cases, prompt medical evaluation is necessary. A healthcare professional should perform a thorough examination and develop an appropriate treatment plan based on the diagnosis to prevent potential complications or worsening of the condition.

To avoid unnecessary harm to the body, it is recommended to use medications such as chlorzoxazone tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets only under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding overuse of the chewing muscles, and undergoing regular dental check-ups in daily life can help prevent the occurrence of chewing muscle pain.