TMJ Treatment in Seoul and Why Korea?
Is the chin the cause even if your front teeth don't close properly?
When open bite or posterior teeth relapse is caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, the jaw must first be stabilized before starting orthodontic treatment.
An open bite, where the upper and lower teeth don’t meet, can occur due to 4 main causes:
① Skeletal cause – congenital factors, often seen in people with long faces
② Dental cause – tooth misalignment, premature contacts, etc.
③ Habitual cause – mouth breathing, thumb sucking, etc.
④ TMJ disorder – posterior bite collapse due to degenerative TMJ changes
When TMJ disorders cause degenerative changes in the jaw joint, the posterior bite collapses, and the front teeth gradually stop closing properly.
If TMJ examination shows signs of degeneration or there are longstanding TMJ symptoms, and degenerative arthritis is suspected, TMJ treatment should be performed first.
At Yonsei Good Day Dental Clinic, orthodontists and oral surgeons work together to accurately diagnose the cause of the open bite and establish a comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment options for open bite suggested by Yonsei Good Day Experts
Treatment Options for Open Bite
Traction
Indications: Open bite caused by TMJ disorder
Principle:
① Lengthens the shortened condyle
② Induces disc placement at the original height
Treatment Method: Repositions mandible using muscle strength without orthodontic treatment
Treatment Period: 8–12 months
Notes: Depending on condition, orthodontics may follow traction treatment
Cost: ₩800,000
Splint + Orthodontics
Indications: All levels of open bite from mild to moderate
Principle:
① Mandibular rotation rather than protrusion
② Mandibular clockwise rotation
Treatment Method: Stabilizes TMJ position first, then corrects open bite with orthodontics
Treatment Period: 1–2 years
Notes: May require long-term splint wearing instead of permanent correction after treatment
Cost: ₩4,500,000~
Double Jaw Surgery
Indications: Severe skeletal open bite
Principle:
① Moves maxilla upward and backward
② Rotates mandible clockwise
Treatment Method: Removes upper teeth bone, shifts maxilla upward and backward, and rotates mandible
Treatment Period: 1–2 years (including recovery period)
Notes: Requires surgical planning through consultation with orthodontic specialist
Cost: ₩10,000,000~
TMJ Treatment in Korea: How Much Does It Cost?
TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint disorder) is a common condition affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. In Korea, treatment is both affordable and advanced, with average costs as follows:
- Consultation + imaging: ₩30,000 to ₩80,000 (approx. $25 to $60 USD)
- Night guard (splint therapy): ₩200,000 to ₩400,000 (approx. $150 to $300 USD)
- TMJ Botox injection: ₩150,000 to ₩350,000 (approx. $110 to $260 USD)
- Physical therapy or laser therapy: ₩50,000 to ₩150,000 per session (approx. $35 to $110 USD)
In the U.S. or Australia, TMJ treatment often starts at $500 and can go beyond $2,000 depending on the method—making Korea up to 70% more affordable.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder affects the hinge joint connecting your jaw to the skull. It can cause:
- Jaw pain or tightness
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Headaches or migraines
- Facial tension or swelling
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen without treatment.
Types of TMJ Treatment Available in Korea
- Splint Therapy (Night Guard) – Custom oral appliances help reduce clenching, grinding, and joint strain.
- Botox Injections – Temporarily relax overactive jaw muscles, reduce pain, and minimize grinding.
- Physical Therapy – Manual therapy and jaw exercises to relieve tightness and inflammation.
- Laser or TENS Therapy – Used for muscle relaxation and TMJ pain relief.
- Orthodontic or Occlusal Adjustments – In some cases, misaligned bites are corrected to reduce jaw stress.
- Surgical Intervention – Rarely needed and reserved for severe joint damage.
Why Is TMJ Treatment More Affordable in Korea?
- Clinics use digital imaging and CBCT scans in-house, reducing diagnostic costs.
- Custom splints and appliances are locally fabricated, keeping prices low.
- High-volume clinics allow for efficient care and competitive pricing.
- Korea emphasizes early, non-invasive treatments that are cost-effective and conservative.
- Botox and laser devices are widely available and offered at reasonable prices.
Why Choose a TMJ Clinic in Seoul?
- Experienced dentists and oral specialists trained in TMJ diagnostics
- Modern facilities with digital scanning, bite analysis, and 3D imaging
- Personalized treatment plans combining medical and dental care
- English-speaking clinics in Gangnam, Apgujeong, and Myeongdong
- Fast appointments and flexible options for international visitors
Average Cost Estimates at Clinics in Seoul
- Initial consultation with CBCT or digital X-ray: ₩30,000 to ₩80,000
- Custom night guard (hard or soft): ₩200,000 to ₩400,000
- Botox for masseter or jaw clenching: ₩150,000 to ₩350,000
- Laser/TENS therapy session: ₩50,000 to ₩150,000
- Full TMJ treatment program (combined): ₩500,000 to ₩1,500,000 depending on duration and method
TMJ treatment in Korea is comprehensive, affordable, and tailored to your specific symptoms. Whether you're dealing with jaw pain, clenching, or facial tension, clinics in Seoul offer effective non-surgical options using modern diagnostics and techniques. With English-speaking support and significantly lower prices than Western countries, Korea is an excellent destination for TMJ care.
