If you’re having jaw pain, you may want to look into TMJ/TMD. Despite the fact that these two acronyms are frequently used interchangeably, they are actually quite different.
Let’s start with a frequent misunderstanding: TMJ and TMD treatments are not the same things. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is an abbreviation for “temporomandibular joint.” The little, delicate joint that links your mouth to your skull is called the temporomandibular joint.
On the other hand, TMD is an acronym for “temporomandibular joint dysfunction.” This term refers to various problems that might affect your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMD treatment refers to the different conditions and issues affecting TMJ’s functionality. TMJ means joint itself, whereas TMD treatment refers to the various conditions and difficulties that can influence the TMJ’s functionality.
Searching for TMD Treatment near you? Infinity Dental Arts is the place for you!
What is TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)?
TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) is a condition in which the TM joints are inflamed or misaligned. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a broad term that refers to a number of similar issues with the joints that link your jaw to your cheekbone.
TMD treatment could be the result of the following symptoms:
- Tenderness or pain in the jaw, ears, face, neck, and shoulders
- Jaw is clenched
- When you open your jaw, you may hear popping or clicking sounds.
- Uncomfortable chewing
- Opening your mouth wide is difficult
- The side of your face is swollen
What is TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint)?
The “hinges” on both sides of your face that link your jaw to your cheekbones are known as temporomandibular joints (TMJs). The hinge and sliding mobility of these joints allow your jaw to open, shift left and right, and move forward and backward. When it comes to eating and speaking, having a wide range of motion is crucial.
The jaw connects the TMJs; therefore, their appropriate function is dependent on each other and the teeth. Because your TMJs rely on a variety of factors to function properly, it’s no surprise that TMJ disorders (TMD) are so frequent.
How to relieve your pain after TMD treatment?
1. Fix your posture
When you sit in an uncomfortable position for an extended amount of time, it might aggravate jaw pain. To fix your posture, sit on a chair with back support and take frequent pauses. Set your seat to be as upright as possible while driving, and find a space that allows you to sit upright and arrange a pillow behind your back for support while conducting leisure activities like watching TV or reading.
To improve your sitting or standing posture, try the following exercise: Straighten your back muscles, raise your chest bone, bring your shoulders back, and lightly pinch your shoulder blades.
2. Sleep
Sleep is essential for a variety of health benefits. Sleep on your back and use cushions to support your neck to help with TMD pain. Don’t sleep on your stomach and when you sleep on your side, avoid putting your hand on your jaw.
3. Lower your stress
To release and relax your jaw, use meditative practices. Gardening is a terrific way to attempt to calm your thoughts and relax your face, and yoga can also help you put less tension on your muscles.
4. Hold Hot/Cold compress
Heat can enhance blood flow and relax your jaw muscles, while ice helps minimize swelling and soreness. Use a light layer between the compress and your skin to apply a hot/cold compress to your jaw for 15-20 minutes at a time.
5. Maintain the resting posture
Reduce wide jaw motions like chewing, yawning, singing, and yelling to help relieve TMD symptoms. Make an effort to maintain as much muscle relaxation as possible.
6. Work your Jaw Out
Joint mobility can be improved by doing jaw exercises. To reduce discomfort, there are three types of jaw activities that you can do:
- Stretching Workouts
- Strength gain workouts
- Relaxing workouts
7. Don’ts: Foods, Activities, and Bad habits
Certain activities and meals can drive you to forcefully open your mouth or move your jaw to extremes. Try to stay away from the following:
- Crunchy & Stiff Food Items
- Gums
- Foods that need too much chewing
- Don’t yell or yawn
- Don’t take big bites
There are some habits that increase your TMD pain. The patterns are as follows and should be consciously avoided after TMD treatment:
- Jaw resting on your palm
- Teeth clenching
- Teeth grinding
- Biting your nails
- Sticking your tongue against your teeth and clenching your jaw muscles
- Biting your nails
- Biting and chewing your lips and inner cheeks
If it is difficult to avoid, discuss it with your dentist, who may be able to provide some solution.
At-home pain management activities may not be enough for some people with TMD. Infinity Dental Arts’ team of experts provides a thorough examination and treatment for TMD, focusing on a conservative, reversible approach that includes physical therapy.
So, for TMD treatment or temporomandibular joint pain treatment, you know whom to go to!
