How Can You Relieve TMJ Pain?

TMJ Tucson, AZ

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which is located in the jaw region of the face. When the joint malfunctions, individuals suffer from TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder can lead to pain and difficulty with eating, speaking and even smiling. 

Individuals suffering from TMJ disorder are often curious about treatment options from a general dentist.

General dentists treat TMJ patients

Many are surprised to learn that general dentists can diagnose and treat TMJ disorder. Nonetheless, general dentists are actually the first point of contact for individuals suffering from TMJ pain and malfunction. They are trained to care for problems in the facial region and specifically the jaw. 

Options for relieving the pain associated with a TMJ diagnosis

The list below includes three common options that general dentists often prescribe to their patients who have been diagnosed with a case of TMJ.

#1 – Practicing conservative measures

Many TMJ patients will experience pain relief by following a few conservative measures. This is often the first course of treatment a dentist will offer patients who have been diagnosed with a mild case of TMJ. Examples of conservative measures include eating a soft food diet, chewing slowly and very carefully, not participating in the act of teeth grinding or clenching and avoid chewing gum. In order for patients to experience the pain relief they seek, it is necessary to perform these measures for a certain amount of time, such as a month or two.

#2 – Taking prescribed medications

A general dentist can prescribe a TMJ patient anti-inflammatory pain medications in order to reduce and even eliminate any pain they are experiencing. Anti-inflammatory medications work by reducing any swelling present, which in turn helps to lower one’s pain levels. Muscle relaxers are another type of medication that helps relieve TMJ-related pain and work by helping the jaw area become much more relaxed, which also helps to reduce one’s pain.

#3 – Apply ice packs, hot packs

Applying an ice pack often works to help reduce the pain that TMJ patients suffer from. Both ice and hot packs help to reduce muscle tension in and around the jaw area. Additionally, this practice can reduce any tooth pain one may be experiencing due to their TMJ diagnosis. Ice packs specifically help to reduce swelling that causes pain and hot packs help to relax one’s muscles, as well as increase one’s blood flow. Patients may need to use one or both, depending on their particular case of TMJ.

Experiencing TMJ-related pain?

TMJ disorder can result in pain and malfunction, which is why care from a general dentist is necessary. There are a number of ways to treat this disorder that go far and beyond the ones listed above. When looking for more information on the diagnosis, management and treatment of TMJ, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist for personalized care. Reach out today to find out more!

Request an appointment here: https://www.sabinodental.com or call Sabino Dental at (520) 308-6711 for an appointment in our Tucson office. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: TMJ in Tucson, AZ.

Related Posts

Can A Dentist Help Relieve TMJ Pain?

Your TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is responsible for connecting the lower jaw to the upper jaw and the skull. Pain in this area can cause tenderness in your jaw muscles, jaw clicking, earaches, and headaches. This can disrupt your daily activities. If you want to know how your dentist can help with your TMJ pain, here…

5 Ways Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Self-Esteem

Are you considering getting one or more cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve your self-image? Read on to learn more about available treatments. This review takes a closer look at the specific reasons why cosmetic dentistry patients often feel more confident in their smiles, providing them with more willingness to go out and pursue the things…

What Dental Issues Does Invisalign Treat?

Using custom-fit plastic trays, Invisalign® treatments are a restorative and corrective treatment for several dental problems. As an orthodontic solution, clear aligners are often compared to a treatment using metal braces. Corrective measures typically address crooked or misaligned teeth, and provided the patient wears the trays for the prescribed length of time, the results are…

At Home Denture Repair Tips

If you are a denture wearer, you will probably need a denture repair at some point. A broken denture can be very unsettling. It prevents a person from doing some of the most basic things, like eating and talking to others. There is an ongoing debate whether it is advisable to DIY a broken denture.…