Tips for Managing a TMJ Flare-Up

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain can disrupt your day and make simple actions like chewing or speaking uncomfortable. It often leads to headaches and chronic jaw pain that make it difficult to focus on anything else.  

If you’re dealing with a TMJ flare-up, you’re probably looking for quick relief. Here’s how to manage the discomfort at home and with professional, long-term help from our team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown in Texas. 

At-Home Tips to Alleviate TMJ Flare-Ups

Use Heat and Cold Therapy

Alternate between a warm compress and an ice pack to reduce pain and ease tension. Start with a warm compress to relax the muscles, followed by a cold pack to minimize inflammation. Hold each one on your jaw for about 10 minutes a few times a day for relief.

Try Gentle Jaw Stretches

Simple stretches can help release tightness in the jaw muscles. A basic exercise is to open your mouth slowly, as wide as comfortable, then close it slowly. Repeat this movement a few times to gently stretch the jaw muscles without straining them.

Practice Jaw Relaxation

Many of us hold tension in our jaws without realizing it. Try to keep your jaw relaxed by avoiding habits that can worsen TMJ pain, like clenching or chewing gum. Focus on keeping your teeth slightly apart and your tongue resting against the roof of your mouth for natural positioning.

Long-Term TMJ Management With Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown

To address TMJ pain, our dentists will conduct a full exam using diagnostic tests and a physical assessment. Based on the results, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Orthotic Bite Positioner: A device you wear full-time to gently adjust and align your bite, helping relieve TMJ symptoms by stabilizing the jaw.
• TENS Therapy: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation uses low electrical currents to relax painful jaw muscles. It can provide relief within 30 minutes.
• Botox Injections: Botox temporarily paralyzes overactive jaw muscles, preventing them from clenching or grinding. This can give you pain relief for three to six months. 

Get Professional Help for TMJ Management Today

If you’re ready to explore professional options for TMJ management, call Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown at 512-819-9100 to schedule a consultation. With the right care and support, you can find lasting relief from TMJ discomfort.