Best Practices to Help Manage Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Best Practices to Help Manage Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Temporomandibular joint disorder. Calgary dentist.

Some people may be unaware that daily facial movements such as smiling, chewing, and laughing can be very painful for many patients. This discomfort can be caused by temporomandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMJ.

For some, their symptoms resolve themselves after a few weeks or a couple of months, but for others, the painful condition does not go away easily and is aggravated by certain behaviors. Fortunately, if you are suffering from TMJ, you can remain hopeful because there are multiple dental clinics that offer TMJ treatment near you.

What is TMJ?

Muscles and ligaments used to move your mouth are connected to temporomandibular joints. These are located where a patient’s skull and lower jaw meet. Temporomandibular disorders, including TMJ, can cause painful symptoms such as clicking and locking of the jaw, headaches, neck pain, and ear pain. TMD does not last long for many patients and symptoms will eventually subside with time. But for some, however, a visit to their SE Calgary dentist will be necessary to ensure they receive proper treatment.

TMD may also be chronic for certain patients and can be made worse by activities such as chewing and swallowing, grinding their teeth, or clenching their jaw.

How to Relieve Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Symptoms?

In some cases, patients may be able to relieve symptoms without needing to seek professional TMJ Treatment in SE Calgary. Ways to manage uncomfortable symptoms include:

1. Maintaining your jaw in a resting position.

Minimizing any wide jaw movement may help relieve soreness. Try minimizing chewing, yawning, and other movements that may overwork the jaw.

2. Improve your posture.

Sitting in a bad posture position for a long period of time can cause higher levels of pain. Many patients who sit down for long periods to work or study may experience additional pain. Opt for a chair with back support and take breaks to ensure you are not overworking your body, neck, and jaw.

3. Try to get a good night’s sleep.

Sleeping well is highly important for different aspects of your health. Sleep on your back and use a pillow as neck support to minimize TMJ symptoms. Avoid sleeping on your stomach and, when sleeping on your side, avoid placing your hands under your jaw.

4. Use a hot or cold compress.

A cold pack will help reduce pain and swelling, and heat will help increase the area’s blood flow and relax your muscles. Apply one of either compress and then gently hold them on your jaw for up to 20 minutes.

5. Minimize your stress.

Perform meditation and try to relax your jaw when you can. Yoga, for example, may be ideal for patients with TMJ who are trying to release stress. Easing any unwanted tension from your muscles will help minimize jawline pain.

6. Exercise your jaw.

Ask your dentist which exercises will help you minimize jaw pain caused by TMJ. Your Calgary dentist will suggest different movements you can make to relieve pain. Some of these could include stretches and strengthening exercises.

What to Avoid?

To avoid worsening TMJ symptoms, avoid biting your nails, chewing the inside tissues of your mouth, resting your jaw in your hands, clenching, and grinding. Some specific activities such as yawning, taking large bites of food, and chewing gum can also increase discomfort.

Contact Destination Dental & Wellness for Treatment!

Have you been constantly searching google for a “dentist near you that offers TMJ treatment”? If you have, search no further. Our dental clinic is here to help, and our dentists will be happy to assist you. Contact us to book your next appointment and begin treatment for this tedious condition.