If you’re one of the many people who suffer from TMJ pain, you know how debilitating it can be. It can make it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep.
Thankfully, there are ways to get relief from the pain. Pinnacle Dentistry has some top tips for TMJ pain relief that may help you find some much-needed relief. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Get a custom-made mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaw
TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, is a common condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw. While there are many TMJ therapies available, one of the most effective treatments is to use a custom-made mouthguard. By wearing a mouthguard at night, you can help to reduce TMJ symptoms by providing added support for the jaw.
In addition, a mouthguard can help to protect your teeth from damage and prevent bruxism, or teeth grinding. If you suffer from TMJ pain, talk to your doctor about getting a custom-made mouthguard. It may just be the relief you’ve been looking for.
2. Apply ice packs to the area for temporary relief
TMJ therapy can provide you with some TMJ pain relief by applying ice packs to the area. You should wrap the ice packs in a towel so that they don’t directly touch your skin. Apply the ice packs for periods of 15 minutes at a time and do this two to four times per day.
The ice will help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the TMJ joint, which should help to ease your pain. You can also try TMJ exercises at home to help stretch and strengthen the muscles around the joint. These exercises won’t provide immediate TMJ pain relief, but they can help to prevent further pain and stiffness in the joint.
3. Take over-the-counter pain medication to reduce inflammation
One option is to take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with TMJ. If you are looking for a more natural solution, you could try using essential oils or ice packs. Just remember that TMJ is a complex condition, and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk to your doctor about what might be the best treatment option for you.
4. Avoid overuse of jaw muscles
TMJ can be caused by several factors, including overuse of the jaw muscles. When these muscles are overworked, they can become tight and inflamed, leading to TMJ symptoms. To avoid overuse of the jaw muscles, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits.
For example, avoid chewing gum and eating hard foods, as they can put undue strain on the jaws. In addition, be sure to practice proper posture and alignment when talking or yawning. If TMJ symptoms do develop, there are a few therapies that can help to relieve pain and restore function to the jaw.
5. See a dentist if the pain doesn’t go away after a few days
If you’re experiencing pain in your jaw, especially if it doesn’t go away after a few days, we encourage you to call Pinnacle Dentistry in Colorado Springs. Our team of experts can help diagnose the source of your pain and provide treatment so you can get back to living life without discomfort. Don’t suffer in silence – call us today!
