Talking to Your Oral Surgeon about Dental Exercises to Reduce Tmj Pain
Posted on 2/3/2025 by Clackamas Oral Surgery |
 The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth, chew, and speak. When this joint is inflamed or injured, it can cause pain, clicking, popping, and difficulty chewing. This condition is commonly referred to as TMJ disorder.
If you're experiencing TMJ pain, seeing an oral surgeon for a consultation is a great first step. They are experts in oral and facial surgery and can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain. They may take X-rays, CT scans, or other imaging tests to get a clear picture of your TMJ joint.
During your consultation, be sure to talk to your oral surgeon about any dental exercises they recommend to help reduce your pain. There are a variety of exercises that can be helpful, depending on the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder. Some common exercises include:
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Mandibular mobilization exercises: These exercises help to improve the range of motion in your jaw joint. You might be instructed to gently open and close your mouth, move your jaw from side to side, or make circular motions with your jaw. |
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Strengthening exercises: These exercises help to strengthen the muscles around your jaw joint. You might be instructed to bite down on a soft object, such as a pencil, or perform isometric exercises by pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth. |
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Relaxation exercises: These exercises help to reduce muscle tension in your jaw and face. You might be instructed to practice deep breathing techniques or progressive muscle relaxation. |
It's important to follow your oral surgeon's instructions carefully when performing these exercises. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the exercises as you become more comfortable. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop immediately and contact your oral surgeon.
In addition to dental exercises, your oral surgeon may recommend other treatments for your TMJ pain, such as:
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Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your oral surgeon may prescribe stronger medications, such as muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications. |
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Splint therapy: A splint is a custom-made mouthguard that fits over your teeth. It can help to reposition your jaw and reduce stress on your TMJ joint. |
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Stress management: Stress can worsen TMJ pain, so it's important to find ways to manage stress. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can be helpful. |
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Injections: In some cases, your oral surgeon may inject corticosteroids or other medications into your TMJ joint to reduce inflammation and pain. |
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Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary for TMJ disorder, but it may be an option if other treatments have not been successful. |
If you're struggling with TMJ pain, don't hesitate to talk to your oral surgeon. They can help you understand the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan that's right for you. By following their recommendations and performing the exercises they recommend, you can find relief and get back to enjoying your daily activities.
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