TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, causes pain in your jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. This disorder can compromise the movement of the jaw and the area around it.
Causes Behind TMD
There are a number of reasons why a patient might be suffering from the pain of a strained TMJ. Some of the reasons you might be experiencing TMD are:
- Cartilage Wear and Tear.
- Dislocated TMJ.
- Clenching and Grinding.
- Misaligned bite or Malocclusion.
- Arthritis.
- Injury.
- Hereditary conditions.
To find TMD relief, make an appointment to see Dr. Drew. He will be able to give you a diagnosis and come up with a treatment plan to relieve the symptoms specific to what is causing your TMD.
Temporary Relief
There are several things you can do at home to provide temporary relief before you come visit Dr. Drew for treatment. Consider some of these home remedies to help you until you can come into the office for a consultation with Dr. Drew:
- Ice: Using ice packs can help reduce the swelling of your jaw. Wrap an ice pack in a clean cloth and apply it for 10-15 minutes.
- Moist Heat: A warm washcloth applied to the area can help relieve the pain and make it easier to stretch out your jaw muscles.
- Pain Medication: Some over-the-counter medications can temporarily relieve the pain and swelling. This should not be a long-term solution.
- Relaxation: Deep, slow breathing and using soothing visual imagery to reduce pain can be effective in easing some of the tension in your jaw.
- Jaw Relaxation Technique: Slow, gentle stretching of the jaw muscles, along with a deliberate effort to keep the jaw relaxed and your lips loose, may help you drain some of the tension in your face. Avoid clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth.
- Side Sleeping: Sleep on your side to give support to your shoulder and neck.
- Soft Foods: Eating soft foods will give your jaw a rest. Avoid eating anything that might cause your joint to strain. Also, avoid chewing gum.
A dysfunction like this can be very uncomfortable, and you might need assistance from Dr. Christopher Drew to help this joint heal. We can offer treatment that may provide lasting relief.
Let Us Help You!
We look forward to helping you with any TMJ issues you are experiencing. Please call our office in Tempe AZ at 480-839-0502 and get the relief that you need!
