How does one treat tmj lockjaw?

Depends: Treatment would depend on whether or not your jaw is locked open or closed. Also, treatment would depend on whether or not the locking is due to muscular issues or problems inside the joint itself.

Depends: Our description of "lockjaw" is either closed lock (limited opening) or open lock (cannot close.) the treatment is dependent on the duration, cause and other factors. The closed lock is a lot easier to treat. I would see a dentist/tmj specialist asap before it gets worse and takes a lot longer to treat.

Complicated.: Is it locked open or closed? Find a TMJ specialist. It is either related to the location of the disc in relationship to the condyle of the jaw and the skull or it is muscular. In some cases, you may have to be put under anesthesia and have it opened or closed. After, that you should be treated by a specialist to stabilize the joint or the lock will become recurring.

A few ideas.: Depends on symptoms, and cause of symptoms. 3 signs of TMJ dysfunction: joint noises, joint pain & limited oral opening. Self treat with soft diet, jaw exercises, massage, heat/cold, OTC pain meds. A splint or physical therapy would be next. Occasionally muscle relaxants, biofeedback. Xrays are done for diagnosis. Surgery usually reserved for serious symptoms not responsive to other treatments.