😁 Give Your Jaw a Break: 10 Simple Self-Care Tips for TMJ Relief
Hello, I’m Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS, and helping patients find relief from TMJ Disorder and facial pain has been an important part of my practice for many years.
Professional TMJ treatment is an important first step, but what you do at home can also play a meaningful role in recovery. Your jaw joints and chewing muscles need time to rest, heal, and regain stability. 🦷❤️
Here are 10 self-care tips I often recommend:
✅ Rest your jaw and allow your chewing muscles to relax.
✅ Avoid overworking your jaw by opening too wide or placing unnecessary pressure on it.
✅ Choose softer foods and avoid hard, crunchy foods that require excessive chewing.
✅ Remember: “Lips together, teeth apart.” Your teeth shouldn’t be touching unless you’re eating.
✅ Practice good posture to reduce unnecessary strain on your jaw and facial muscles.
✅ Use moist heat to help relax sore muscles and reduce discomfort.
✅ Apply moist heat twice daily when needed.
✅ Gently massage sore jaw and facial muscles to help relieve tension.
✅ Take prescribed medications as directed and discuss appropriate pain-relief options with your healthcare provider.
✅ Wear your prescribed mouthguard at night to help reduce the effects of grinding and clenching.
Most importantly, don’t ignore ongoing jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, clicking, clenching, or difficulty chewing. TMJ problems deserve proper evaluation and individualized care.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ Disorder, I encourage you to seek help from a qualified TMJ professional. If you’re in the Eden Prairie, Minnesota area, or willing to travel, I’d be happy to meet with you, listen to your concerns, and help determine a path toward greater comfort and a healthier, happier smile. 😊
Call us at (952) 942-9600 or email us at office@smilesbygallagher.com.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
Learn more about me here: https://www.gallaghercosmeticdentistry.com/…/meet-dr-mike/
