We link primary sources - including studies, scientific references, and statistics - within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. It has shown promise in treating other conditions, and some doctors believe it may work in treating TMJ pain. Research is currently underway with the aim of shedding light on whether or not Botox is a viable treatment option.īoxtox is a clinical version of botulinum toxin type A, which paralyzes muscles. These procedures cannot be reversed and can be painful, so people with TMJ pain should try other remedies first.įor people whose TMJ pain is due to missing or broken jaws, jaw implants may offer relief.īotox is not currently approved for use in the treatment of TMJ pain. In some cases, surgery to correct jaw imbalances is another option. In people whose TMJ pain is not well-controlled by home remedies, a stabilization splint can reduce pain and stabilize the joint. If lifestyle strategies do not work, anti-anxiety medications may be appropriate. Meditation and therapy can help with controlling stress and anxiety. Psychological distress can cause people to tense their muscles without thinking, making the pain worse.

Massaging the neck and head muscles to control tension radiating from the TMJ.

Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to offer temporary relief.

Some people find that alternating heat and ice, 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off, offers even greater relief.

Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes.

Other strategies that can reduce TMJ pain include: Although these are available over the counter, a fitted one designed by a dentist offers greater protection and more durability. If TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding or clenching, a nighttime bite guard can help. Share on Pinterest A nighttime bite guard may be recommended to manage TMJ pain if it is caused by teeth grinding. Hold for 20 seconds.Īs the fifth exercise becomes easier, people can use wider objects to separate their front and back teeth. Slide your lower jaw forward so that the object rests in between your back teeth and front teeth.

Place a thin object, such as a pencil or paintbrush, in between your front teeth.

Extend your lower jaw to the left and hold for 5-10 seconds. With your head facing straight ahead, glance to the right with your eyes only. Next, open your mouth slightly and glide your lower jaw back and forth 5-10 times. Hold for 5-10 seconds then close your mouth.

Slowly and steadily open your mouth as wide as it will comfortably open, with your tongue in a neutral position.

Glide your lower jaw out as far as it will go and then back in as far as it will go.

Place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth.

Open your mouth as wide as you comfortably can, and hold for 5-10 seconds.

They reduce muscle and joint tension, offering longer-term relief: Stretching exercises can help with TMJ pain during a flare-up. It may also equip them with the skills to consciously release that tension.

This second exercise is a progressive relaxation exercise to help people become more aware of areas of tension. Begin with the feet and work upwards to the head. While sitting or lying in a comfortably supported position, tense and release tension from each muscle in your body.Exhale slowly while making your exhalation last about as long as your inhalation. Slowly inhale, allowing your stomach rather than your chest to expand.TMJ pain is often the product of tension-producing stress. Push inward while closing your mouth against the resistance. Put your index finger between your chin and lower lip. Open your mouth as wide as you comfortably can.Continue opening the mouth against moderate force from your thumb, and then hold it open for 5-10 seconds. Place a thumb under your chin and push your chin downward against it.During times of intense pain, they can make the pain worse. Strengthening exercises are best to perform between TMJ flare-ups. Share on Pinterest The temporomandibular joint is a common source of pain, which may be relieved by some simple exercises.

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