What Are the Treatments for TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders are commonly referred to as TMJ. The conditions affect the muscles and bone around the jaw area; the temporomandibular joint is near the ears where the lower jaw bone connects with the skull. Signs and symptoms of TMJ include difficulty or inability to speak, chew, swallow or even show facial expressions. According to The TMJ Association, TMJ is commonly diagnosed by dentists or oral surgeons. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial research estimates 10 million Americans are affected by TMJ; the condition is more common in women than men. Pain is not permanent in most cases of TMJ, and will often be resolved with treatment or on its own. The Mayo Clinic suggests self management and care as the primary source of treatment; surgery should only be considered as a last resort.

Heat and Ice Therapy

Apply moist heat or cold packs to the jaw area to relax muscles and aid in pain relief. Wrap the packs in a moist warm towel. Avoid burning the skin; do not use an extremely hot heat pack.

Massage Therapy

Massage the muscles inside your mouth, known as the masseter muscles, suggests University of Maryland Medical Center. Place your thumb inside your mouth and squeeze the inside portion of your cheek. Massage muscles deeper into your mouth, around the teeth and further back into your throat using the index finger.

Diet

Change your dietary habits. Eat foods that are soft, such as baked potatoes, yogurt or pasta. Avoid hard to chew or crunchy items; these foods may add additional stress and discomfort when chewing. Cut food into small pieces and do not eat food that is sticky and requires a great length of chewing suggests the Mayo Clinic.

Relaxation and Mouth Movement

Allow jaw muscles to rest and relax as much as possible; do not chew gum. Do not open your mouth too wide when yawning. Avoid singing or excessive talking.

Medication

Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen, sold commercially as Aleve, to decrease pain and inflammation. The Mayo Clinic reports using anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are not as effective. Ask your doctor for a prescription for stronger pain medication if necessary; muscle relaxants, antidepressants, corticosteroids and even botulism injections (Botox) are used to treat pain and discomfort associated with TMJ.

Mouth Guard

Wear a bite guard when sleeping to avoid grinding your teeth. Fit the device over the upper or lower teeth, as directed by your dentist. Use the bite guard for a limited time; the use of an oral device is a temporary solution. Visit your dentist if the guard is painful or uncomfortable to wear.

Surgery

Research all surgical options thoroughly before making a decision. Have your doctor explain the surgery, benefits and risks involved. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research suggests surgery should be avoided when possible; surgery is irreversible and very invasive. Surgery permanently alters the jaw and mouth area and includes grinding down teeth, jaw bone and altering a person's bite. Implants are occasionally used to replace jaw bone; however, the results are controversial and may not relieve TMJ.