The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to the temporal bones on either side of your skull. Over time, you may experience pain while eating or speaking, which can be caused by problems with the joint itself or issues with the connecting muscles. Along with visiting your dentist to get to the root of the issue, you can also take steps to control discomfort at home.

How Can I Manage Pain Resulting From TMJ Issues?

1. Relax Your Jaw

TMJ pain is sometimes caused by stress and tension, which results in teeth clenching and grinding. While you must work to correct those behaviors, you can also learn relaxation techniques that will ease tension surrounding your jaw. This can include physical or massage therapy, which often helps loosen stiff tissues. You may also consider a nighttime mouthguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping.

2. Apply a Heat/Cold Pack

Alternating heat and cold on the affected area will alleviate swelling and decrease pain. Start by placing an ice pack on your face for no longer than ten minutes. Make sure the ice wrapped in a towel or cloth to prevent skin irritation. Next, apply a warm, damp washcloth to the same area for about five minutes. Feel free to use this therapy several times a day until you can visit the dentist.

3. Medication

Some medications, such as ibuprofen, reduce swelling while also helping to control pain. Other types of drugs have proven useful for treating teeth grinding and TMJ pain. For instance, doctors sometimes prescribe anxiety and depression medications to reduce symptoms and free up jaw movement. Your dentist can help you determine a solid medication regiment.

Gladstein Dental Center is equipped to treat a wide range of TMJ issues. They determine the scope of the issue using innovative T-SCAN technology, which provides dentists a computer-aided diagnosis of underlying jaw issues. From there, your dental team will recommend therapy or take steps to correct bite problems that cause pain and discomfort. Other dental services include implants, gum disease treatment, root canals, whitening, crowns, and bridges. Schedule an appointment in New Britain, CT, by calling (860) 223-1162. If you want to see the full listing of procedures, visit their website.