How to Manage Your Tmj Pain Between Dental Visits
Posted on 8/15/2025 by Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery |
 TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If you're experiencing TMJ pain, you're probably eager to find relief. While seeing your dentist or oral surgeon is the best way to get a diagnosis and treatment plan, there are things you can do at home to manage your pain between dental visits.
Apply Ice or Heat
Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. You can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel or a heating pad on low. Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
Eat Soft Foods
If you're having trouble chewing, stick to soft foods that are easy to eat. This will help reduce the strain on your jaw muscles. Some good options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and scrambled eggs.
Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods
Hard or chewy foods can put extra stress on your jaw joint, which can worsen your pain. Avoid foods like nuts, hard candy, and steak.
Use a Mouth Guard
A mouth guard can help protect your teeth and jaw joint from damage. This is especially important if you grind your teeth at night. Your dentist can help you find the right mouth guard for you.
Relaxation Techniques
Stress can worsen TMJ pain. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
Physical Therapy
In some cases, physical therapy may be helpful in managing TMJ pain. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles around your jaw joint.
Good Oral Care
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it is especially important if you have TMJ. Brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent inflammation and infection, which can worsen TMJ pain.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can check for signs of TMJ and recommend treatment options if needed. They can also help you develop an oral care routine that is right for you.
Restoration Dentistry
Restoration dentistry, such as crowns, bridges, or implants, can help restore the function of your teeth and jaw joint. This can be helpful if your TMJ pain is caused by missing or damaged teeth.
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, it is important to see your dentist or oral surgeon to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. However, there are things you can do at home to manage your pain between dental visits. By following the tips above, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
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