What helps TMJ pain?

What helps TMJ pain?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is just a subset of symptoms under a larger umbrella term entitled, temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

TMD are defined by a set of clinical signs that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the masticatory muscles, and related structures involved in the movements of the TMJ.

What are treatment options for TMD?

1. Oral Care:
   • Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid habits like teeth grinding or clenching.
2. Hot and Cold Therapy:
   • Apply a warm compress or cold pack to the affected area for short periods to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Pain Medication:
   • Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide temporary relief from TMJ pain. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
4. Diet Modification:
   • Stick to soft foods, avoid chewing gum, and cut food into small, manageable pieces to reduce stress on the jaw joint.
5. Physical Therapy:
   • A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, improving joint function.

   • Physical therapists typically work alongside a dental team to provide manual techniques, exercises, sleep advice, postural advice, stretches and other modalities to help pain and improve function of the jaw.

   • If you seek out a comprehensive therapist, you will get treatments to the joints and muscles of not only to the jaw / orofacial region; but also to the neck and upper quarter (i.e. shoulder and upper back).

6. Oral Appliances:
   • A dentist may recommend a splint or mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding or clenching, which can exacerbate TMJ pain.
7. Stress Management:
   • Stress reduction techniques like relaxation exercises, meditation, or counseling can help alleviate TMJ symptoms, as stress can exacerbate the condition.
8. Avoid Extreme Jaw Movements:
   • Minimize wide yawning, loud singing, or other extreme jaw movements that can strain the TMJ.
9. Botox Injections:
   • In some cases, Botox injections may be recommended to temporarily paralyze the jaw muscles and reduce pain.
10. Surgery:
    • In severe cases where conservative treatments prove ineffective, healthcare providers may consider surgical interventions. However, surgery typically remains a last resort.

A common question from patients is —- what is best for me?

Many patients start out with home remedies and already taking medications prior to seeking out my care. Therefore, I am unaware of how many patients who have jaw pain simply respond to a short duration pharmacological approach versus needing other treatments.

Therefore, when someone seeks out my care, I usually advice to go as conservative as possible. Meaning, to first go with non-invasive splint or oral appliance, inspect your daily stress levels and physical therapy.

I also advise making sure you choose a therapist trained in treating TMD and capable of providing a comprehensive approach, rather than relying on general exercises found online.

Conclusion