There is no one ideal method of treating TMJ (temporomandibular) pain. With that said, however, some TMJ therapies are significantly more popular than others because they tend to frequently work the first time they’re utilized. TMJ pain can go away on its own, but. If your symptoms persist or worsen, your dentist in Okotoks can suggest a number of treatments to help you manage the discomfort and get back to living well.
Symptoms
Determining whether you have TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) is the very first step when it comes to receiving treatment. If you are or have been experiencing sensitivity or pain in your jaw, this is an obvious sign of TMD, and may be accompanied by the inability to fully open your mouth when speaking or eating.
Additional signs include:
- Discomfort near the ear
- A facial ache
- Clenching of the teeth
Schedule a visit with your dentist for TMJ treatment in Okotoks if you’re dealing with any combination of these symptoms in order to see if there are any treatment choices that might be effective for you.
Treating Your TMJ
(1) Maintain the posture of your jaw
Reduce wide jaw motions like chewing, yawning, singing, and yelling to aid with TMJ pain. Make every effort to keep your muscles as relaxed as possible. Long periods of time spent sitting in an uncomfortable position can make your jaw pain worse.
To enhance your posture while working, select a chair with back up support and take frequent rests. When driving, adjust your seat as upright as possible; when engaging in leisure activities like reading or watching TV, select a location that enables you to sit upright; and add a pillow behind for support.
Hearn recommends the following practice to improve your posture, whether standing or sitting: To straighten your back muscles, lift your chest, bring your shoulders back, and lightly pinch your shoulder blades.
(2) Have a restful night’s sleep
Numerous facets of healthy health depend on sleep. Sleep on your back with your neck supported by pillows to relieve TMJ pain. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, and don’t put your hand on your jaw if you’re on your side.
(3) Use a hot or cold compress
Heat can relax your jaw muscles and enhance blood flow, while ice helps to minimize swelling and pain. Apply a hot or cold compress to your jaw for a period of 15 to 20 minutes at a time, leaving a thin layer of space between the compress and your skin.
(4) Reduce tension
To help your jaw relax and become more flexible, try these meditation practices. Gardening is a terrific pastime to try to calm your mind and relax your face, and yoga activities can also make your muscles feel less stressed.
(5) Exercise your jaw
Joint mobility can be improved with jaw exercises. Three distinct jaw exercises can be combined to ease discomfort:
- Stretching techniques
- Exercising your muscles
- Relaxing activities
If you have questions about these methods, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist.
(6) Avoid specific behaviours and foods
When engaging in certain activities or consuming certain foods, you might forcefully open your mouth or move your jaw a lot. Avoid the following at all costs:
- Sighing or shouting
- Hard or crunchy foods
- Taking substantial sips of food
- Foods that demand a lot of chewing
- Gum chewing
If the pain becomes unbearable, consult a dentist to acquire TMJ treatment near you as soon as possible.
Come into Cimarron Dental Wellness
Though it may appear otherwise, TMD can be effectively treated. There are multiple methods you can explore with your dentist that are non-surgical; usually, jaw surgery is often regarded as the last result.
If you’re dealing with TMD, you should speak with a doctor or a dentist near you. At our neighborhood clinic, our team is ready to assist you in getting your oral and general health back to normal. Call us today.