Have you felt a new pain in your jaw? Does the soreness radiate to the head, ears, and face? Are you noticing a decline in your oral function, specifically in the jaw? You could have temporomandibular joint disorders, also known as TMJ.
Inflammation in this joint in the jaw can stem from many sources. Your dentist will need to intervene to treat the problem. And the treatment might vary depending on the disorder’s cause. Read on to discover three treatment options your dentist might suggest to relieve TMJ concerns.
How to Relieve TMJ Symptoms
Engage in Stress Relief Activities
TMJ disorders occur due to tension building in this joint of the jaw. Pressure from constant strain on your teeth can generate this tension, manifesting in jaw problems and pain. Stress can be a primary source of this strain, which can initiate or exacerbate habits like teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism.
If you reduce stress, you can help to alleviate this pressure on the jaw and relieve TMJ symptoms. Your dentist can offer advice along with deep breathing exercises to help you get rid of this stress. A healthy diet and amount of physical activity may also help to lower your stress levels and preserve your jaw.
The dentist can also provide you with facial exercises that will stretch and loosen tightened muscles in the jaw. With the muscles relaxed you should see a decline in discomfort caused by TMJ.
Wear a Custom Night Guard
Bruxism is often an unconscious habit and can manifest without your awareness such as when you sleep. Relieving stress can address this habit, but your dentist may also suggest that you wear a custom-made night guard during sleep.
The night guard will cushion your teeth against grinding and clenching, ensuring the actions do not put excess strain on the jaw muscles. This appliance can also keep your jaw in a position where it can rest throughout the night.
The personalized fit ensures that you can wear it comfortably and securely without worrying it will fall out of place during the night. Make sure you wear your night guard as directed by your dentist for the best results.
Amend Bite Problems
If you have crooked, overlapped, or gapped teeth, these dental misalignments could lead to TMJ. Misaligned teeth could create an uneven distribution of pressure when you bite down or chew, which could strain the jaw muscles and cause TMJ.
Your dentist can amend minor bite problems by straightening your smile with Invisalign. These custom-made aligners will gradually shift teeth into a straighter position when worn for 22 or more hours per day. With a straighter smile, you can bite down properly without hurting your jaw.
More severe bite problems and malocclusions might need treatment from an orthodontist. Your dentist can evaluate your smile and suggest appropriate treatment when you schedule a consultation. Call your dentist and find a solution to chronic jaw pain and TMJ today.