As your Noblesville dentist, my job is to not only keep your mouth healthy, but also to help improve your quality of life. If you have reoccurring headaches, ear pain or sinus issues that your doctor has not been able to determine the cause of, it is a good idea to ask your Noblesville dentist (or whomever is providing your dental care) about TMJ.
If you have been diagnosed with TMJ or have any of these 5 signs of TMJ, the following list of tips can help alleviate your pain.
Jaw rest:
When you can, keep your teeth apart as much as possible. This will keep you from grinding your teeth so your jaw can get some rest. In order to do this, you will need to start being mindful of when you are clenching or grinding. Avoid chewing gum or eating hard, chewy food or food that requires you to open your mouth widely such as a large sandwich.
Heat and ice therapy:
Applying heat and ice to your jaw will alleviate pain by reducing muscle tension. This practice can also help reduce muscle spasms that can occur with TMJ.
Medications:
Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or steroids can help control inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants to control and decrease painful muscle spasms. In certain situations, local injection of cortisone preparations into the TMJ may be helpful.
Physical therapy:
Opening and closing the jaw, massage and electrical stimulation help to decrease pain and increase the range of motion and strength of the jaw joint.
Stress management:
For TMJ sufferers, grinding and clenching are natural habits that will escalate when stress invades. Stress support groups, psychological counseling and medications can be help you find effective ways to manage and reduce stress.
If you think you may have TMJ, contact your Noblesville dentist today.
