Suggestions From a TMJ Dentist in Irvine for Easing Your Jaw Pain

Visit a TMJ dentist in Irvine for tips on how to ease your jaw pain. Many people clench their jaws and grind their teeth at night. This can cause you to wake up with jaw discomfort and even face or neck pain. Jaw clenching and teeth grinding extend to other symptoms as well, which could indicate TMJ disorders.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorders, TMJ-D, or TMD is jaw tightness and discomfort caused by inflammation and joint wear. TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which is responsible for the hinge-like motions your jaw makes, including opening and closing your mouth. Most people open and close their mouths at least 2,000 times a day. If you have TMJ disorders, you are probably experiencing discomfort due to everyday use. Other symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• tightness

• grinding noises

• locking

• discomfort

• headaches

• fatigue

• pain when yawning or eating

• pressure

• ear pain

• head and neck ache

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You are more at risk for TMJ disorders if you have had a face, neck, or jaw injury, you have arthritis, or you grind your teeth at night. Oral surgery and orthodontic treatment can also lead to TMJ disorders. Since causes of TMJ disorders are still relatively unknown and are constantly being researched, our TMJ dentist in Irvine office advises patients to avoid irreversible oral surgeries to treat TMD. We encourage patients to first practice these simple suggestions:

• Eat soft foods that do not cause discomfort and extra strain.

• Avoid chewing gum, which can aggravate this condition.

• Try to keep yawning to a minimum, and do not open your mouth wide to yawn.

• Avoid unnecessary yelling or singing.

• Take pain relievers, muscle relaxers, sedatives, and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate discomfort and help you sleep as directed by your dentist or doctor.

• Learn jaw exercises that help relieve tension and gently stretch the area.

• Receive massage therapy around the neck, shoulders, and head.

• Learn more about stress management.

• Ice your joint area to reduce swelling.

• Avoid caffeine or alcohol in the evenings before bed.

If you are still experiencing intense discomfort after practicing these suggestions, you can visit a TMJ dentist in Irvine for the best additional treatment options. We offer reversible, safe treatments to help alleviate discomfort and eliminate the causes of TMD.

One of our popular treatment options is an oral appliance that helps position your jaw into a location that alleviates discomfort and reduces the risk of teeth grinding or jaw clenching. The oral appliance fits like a mouthguard and is comfortable and safe for use. This option is non-invasive and could help symptoms without requiring oral surgery.

For more suggestions from a TMJ dentist in Irvine for easing your jaw pain, visit our office or call. In addition to suggesting helpful tips to use, we can also provide you with necessary medication and treatment options to get rid of discomfort and tension.