Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMD) are complex musculoskeletal health complications that impact neurological pain in the face. For many patients who suffer from TMD, symptoms experienced can be difficult to manage.
If you suffer from jaw pain, it is important to reach out to your dentist to become familiar with the risks faced and how you can manage some pain using home remedies. We want to make sure you understand some other options that can help relieve TMD pain, but also understand that sometimes help from your dentist is needed too.
Try hot and cold packs
While hot and cold packs do not treat symptoms of TMD, they will work to help alleviate the aches and pains you may be experiencing. Using hot and cold packs should be rotated every 20 minutes to ensure the best accuracy and pain relief.
Try using a cold pack to the side of the lower jaw (near the TMJ) for 10-20 minutes. And, after the cold pack is used, it is important to perform recommended stretches and/or exercises to help in the process and keep the TMJ from remaining stiff.
Next, apply a hot pack or warm towel to the joint. This routine should be repeated a few times each day to help alleviate some of the pain and stiffness of the TMJ.
Turn to oral appliance therapy
While hot or cold packs can help to alleviate pain and stiffness periodically, it is important to remember that this should not be the only form of treatment patients seek. Dr. Patel offers oral appliance therapy, which helps to treat your TMD symptoms. Through oral appliance therapy, complex conditions can be successfully managed and treated.
If you are experiencing jaw pain or frequent headaches and migraines, contact us at Craniofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Center in Georgia today for more information on TMD and oral appliance therapy. It’s time to put an end to your jaw pain.
