Becoming more aware of tension-related habits — clenching your jaw, grinding your teeth or chewing pencils — will help you reduce their frequency. The following tips may help you reduce symptoms of TMJ disorders:
• Avoid overuse of jaw muscles: Eat soft foods. Cut food into small pieces. Steer clear of sticky or chewy food. Avoid chewing gum.
• Stretching and massage: Your doctor, dentist or physical therapist may show you how to do exercises that stretch and strengthen your jaw muscles and how to massage the muscles yourself.
• Heat or cold: Applying warm, moist heat or ice to the side of your face may help alleviate pain.
Alternative medicine:
Complementary and alternative medicine techniques may help manage the chronic pain often associated with TMJ disorders. Examples include:
• Acupuncture: A specialist trained in acupuncture treats chronic pain by inserting hair-thin needles at specific locations on your body.
• Relaxation techniques: Consciously slowing your breathing and taking deep, regular breaths can help relax tense muscles, which can reduce pain.
• Biofeedback: Electronic devices that monitor the tightness of specific muscles can help you practice effective relaxation techniques.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic
