The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that nearly 5 to 12% of the population are affected by TMJ pain. This is over 10 million Americans. Of this population, only one-half to two-thirds seek treatment. For those who are suffering from jaw pain, headaches, migraines, and vertigo, Dr. Adam Hahn highly recommends they see a dentist first. During your consult, we will determine the best course of treatment for your TMJ pain. Oftentimes, we will recommend a few natural remedies for TMJ pain to give you instant relief. Try out the remedies below for yourself.
Moist Heat/Ice
One of the first natural remedies for TMJ pain is moist heat. Simply apply a moist heat pack, warm water bottle or moist towel on your jaw to improve the function of your jaw and to reduce pain. Be careful not to burn yourself in the process. Alternate the moist heat with an ice pack throughout the day to decrease inflammation and numb the pain in your jaw. Ice also helps promote faster healing in the jaw. Make sure to never apply ice directly to skin and to always wrap it in a towel first. Apply ice for only 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
Soft Diet
Simply changing up your diet to eating soft foods only can do wonders for TMJ pain. Try eating a diet that consists of only soft or blended foods to give your jaw a break from chewing. Avoid any hard or crunchy foods that may stretch your mouth or overwork your jaw like apples, corn on the cob, or whole fruits.
Jaw Exercises
Another natural remedy for TMJ pain are jaw exercises. During your consult with Dr. Hahn, he will provide you with a list of exercises to complete daily for your jaw. These exercises will increase jaw mobility as well as healing. Each patient receives different exercises based on their needs.
Elderberry
Topical elderberry salves have been known to treat patients with jaw pain and headaches (all related to TMJ), however; there are some rare cases when they have gotten poisoning. When they do there are some side effects like dizziness, numbness and difficulty breathing.
Relaxation
Relaxing is crucial for eliminating TMJ pain. Find a relaxation technique that works for you whether that is yoga, massage, meditation or guided breathing exercises. Finding a way to relax will help loosen your jaw and prevent pain.
Side Sleeping
Sleeping on your side is one of the easiest natural remedies for TMJ pain. Try sleeping on your side with a good pillow between your shoulder and neck to see if it makes a difference.
Relax Your Face
Oftentimes, those who suffer from TMJ have a difficult time keeping their face relaxed. Make a conscious effort to relax your lips and keep your teeth apart.
Avoid These
The last natural remedies for TMJ pain include avoiding gum chewing, jaw clenching and cradling a phone. While few of us use a traditional phone at home, these are still common at work, and many of us are guilty of holding the phone on our shoulder to free up both hands to type. However, this can stress the muscles of the neck and jaw, exacerbating TMJ. And don’t forget that spending a lot of time looking down at your phone can contribute to text neck!
Do you suffer from jaw pain or frequent headaches and looking for a remedy? You might have TMJ. Give Smile Columbia Dentistry a call at (803) 781-9090 to schedule an appointment with TMJ dentist, Dr. Adam Hahn in Columbia, SC. We will help you eliminate TMJ pain for good with a proper treatment plan.
