According to the TMJ Association, there are different stages of TMJ, including:
Stage 1: Early stage, with minimal discomfort and no joint damage
Stage 2: Moderate stage, with increasing pain and joint damage
Stage 3: Severe stage, with significant pain, limited jaw movement, and joint damage
The stage of TMJ can impact treatment options, with earlier stages typically responding better to conservative treatments such as physical therapy and self-care strategies, while later stages may require more invasive treatments such as surgery.