You Asked, We Answered: How Can You Get Fast Relief From TMD Pain At Home?

August 31, 2021

According to the National Institute of Craniofacial Research, about 1 in 4 people struggle with symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), like jaw pain and migraine-like headaches. However, only 1 in 20 consult with their dentist about treatment. While scheduling an appointment with your dentist is the best way to treat the root of the problem, there are a few ways you can get fast relief from TMD pain at home. Keep reading to learn what they are!

Tip #1: Stick to Soft Foods

In short, consuming hard, sticky, or chewy foods will exacerbate the inflamed muscles in your jaw and face. Therefore, it’s a good idea to avoid taffy, peanut brittle, crunchy bread, and other products that require extensive chewing power. Instead, stick to alternatives like oatmeal, hard-boiled eggs, applesauce, and yogurt.

Tip #2: Implement a Routine

To prevent your symptoms from flaring up, try getting into a routine of applying heat, stretching your jaw, and using a cold compress. Placing a heating pad or warm towel against your cheek will relax any tight muscles. From there, do some simple jaw stretches, like gently opening and closing your mouth and moving your jaw from side to side. After a few minutes, use a cold compress to soothe puffiness and inflammation. Completing this routine several times a day can make all the difference!

Tip #3: Practice Stress-Relief

One of the biggest culprits of TMD is stress. So, it’s not hard to see why so many patients are experiencing common symptoms, like ear pain, jaw soreness, and intense headaches. The good news is that you can ease your anxiety (and TMD symptoms!) by practicing meditation, breathing deeply, doing yoga, and the like.

Tip #4: Take OTC Pain Medication

When discomfort stemming from TMD is too much to bear, take OTC pain medication as directed until your dental appointment. Remember, this is a band-aid solution, not a long-term one. To get the true relief you need, schedule a consultation with your dentist. After all, they have undergone extensive training and have a deep understanding of facial structures. Once they get a better idea of your symptoms and the root of the problem, they can put a custom plan in place to get you the lasting relief you deserve.

About the Practice

With two phenomenal dentists in-house, Dr. Amy Crary and Dr. Elizabeth Bacha, our team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart are here for all of your smile-related needs. In fact, due to their exceptional skill, patient-driven approach to care, and dedication to top-notch dentistry, we are the highest-rated dentist in Stuart on Google! So, if you are looking for a dentist to help you ease your TMD pain, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at 772-888-1590.