Jaw pain is a common dental concern that we see many patients suffering from. It’s important to have your jaw pain evaluated by a professional dentist like Dr. Brent Engelberg. Jaw pain can be a symptom of underlying dental concerns like decay, dental damage, or even a TMJ disorder. Here are some ways patients can manage their jaw pain on a day-to-day basis.
Practice Mindfulness
Many patients develop jaw pain if they are under a lot of stress or anxiety. A natural response to stress is for you to tense your facial muscles and hold them in a concerned position. Over time, the more you do this, the more stress you are putting on your jawbone and jaw joints. This causes inflammation which can lead to jaw pain. To remedy this, patients with frequent jaw pain should leave themselves reminders around their workspace and home to relax their facial muscles and do some jaw stretches. Gently moving your jaw around will help you release the tension you are holding in your facial muscles and prevent the occurrence of jaw pain.
Pain Management Routine
If you are currently experiencing jaw pain, at-home pain management strategies can help get you through the flareup until you are able to see a dentist. Take ibuprofen to reduce inflammation around your jaw joints. Then, lay down on your back and hold a cold compress to your cheek and jawbone. If you are unable to rest, remember to avoid eating crunchy foods or chewing gum until your pain subsides. These substances will only apply more pressure to your jaw joints and cause more pain. If your jaw pain is prolonged, contact your dentist immediately for further instruction.
TMJ Treatment Options
Jaw pain doesn’t have to last forever. In our Arlington Heights, IL dentist office, we offer a variety of treatment options for patients who experience frequent jaw pain, also known as a TMJ disorder. Our treatment options include Botox, splint therapy, bite correction therapy, orthodontics, and restorative dentistry options. Depending on the underlying cause of your jaw pain, Dr. Brent Engelberg will recommend which treatment plan will best meet your needs. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to jaw pain treatment, Dr. Engelberg will come up with a treatment plan that is personalized to your needs to ensure that you do not have to experience the signs and symptoms of your disorder as frequently.