The temporomandibular joint, TMJ for short, is located on either side of your face near your ears, connecting your lower jaw to your skull. It gives you the ability to open and close your mouth without a second thought. 

That is, of course, until it begins to hurt. 

TMJ pain is common and can happen for many different reasons. If you are experiencing it, help is available. 

This article explores how to relieve TMJ pain at home— and professionally with the help of your dentist. 

Is it TMJ Pain? 

How do you know that what you are feeling is TMJ pain and not something else? If you have never been formally diagnosed, it is best to have a dentist do a thorough examination to determine the cause of your discomfort. 

In the meantime, knowing what to look for is always helpful. Below are some of the most common symptoms of TMJ pain. 

  • Pain around the joint on one or both sides of the face
  • Jaw pain or tenderness with movement, such as eating or speaking
  • Popping, clicking, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw
  • Locking of the joint, leaving you unable to open or close your mouth

Additionally, TMJ pain can extend further throughout the body. It can cause ear aches, eye pain, headaches, neck aches, and shoulder pain. 

Treating TMJ Pain at Home

TMJ pain that is very mild can often be addressed at home. This usually requires you to give your jaw a rest by eating soft foods for a short time and applying ice to the area. You can also massage the muscles around the joint and take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen.

Keep in mind that without proper treatment from a professional, the pain will likely return. So, if you find that your TMJ pain comes back time and time again, regardless of how mild, it may be a good idea to see the dentist. 

Relieve TMJ Pain Professionally

Your dentist is highly skilled in treating TMJ pain and finding its root cause. This means that you are not simply treating the symptoms or giving your jaw a rest but rather finding solutions. TMJ pain doesn't often just disappear. It may go away for a bit, offering relief, but it will be back. 

How can your dentist help? Check out these TMJ treatments. 

Botox Injections

While Botox injections are often associated with cosmetic procedures, they have proven themselves to be a great help medically, too.

Botox has been used for treating migraines and muscle spasms throughout the body. And, today, dentists are finding it to be effective for treating the pain associated with TMJ disorders. 

Stabilization Splints and Mouthguards

Bruxism involves clenching the jaw and grinding the teeth. This is often a major culprit in causing TMJ pain. The use of stabilization splints and mouthguards can minimize the signs of bruxism that typically occur at night. 

The stabilization splints are worn while sleeping, providing a cushion between the teeth that reduces the impact and damage caused by grinding and clenching. As a result, there is less pressure on the joint — and a reduction in TMJ pain. 

Oral Surgery

In instances where the TMJ pain is severe, oral surgery may be needed. Replacing the jaw joint can be done to provide relief when other options fall short. Keep in mind that this is a last resort and reserved for the worst cases. 

If you are suffering from TMJ pain and searching for relief, the best thing you can do is to seek professional treatment from an experienced dentist.