News & Events

Managing Facial Pain and TMJ Pain

Managing Facial Pain and TMJ Pain

TMD is characterized as a painful, irritating condition that can affect patients of all different ages and backgrounds. Patients can experience pain, tenderness, and discomfort throughout their face, ears, jaw joints, neck, shoulders, and upper back. This painful condition can really affect your quality of life. With 10% to 15% of Americans living with TMJ pain, finding ways to help manage and alleviate this pain is crucial. Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center is here to provide leading pain management support for all of our patients.

The Do’s and Don’ts for TMJ Pain

  • Good posture: Practicing proper posture throughout the day can really help improve the stability of your jaw. Proper posture also includes a good sleeping position as well as being aware of how you’re holding your phone and performing day-to-day tasks.
    Proper meal planning: Consideration regarding what you’re eating is also crucial for those with TMD. Planning softer meals that don’t require excessive work on your jaw can help speed up your recovery while pacifying TMJ pain.
  • Lifestyle changes: Making sure not to chew on fingernails, ice, or pens can also ensure you avoid TMJ pain and flare-ups. We also recommend avoiding chronic use of over-the-counter painkillers. NSAIDs lead to long-term adverse health issues. Turning to holistic or natural pain relief is your best bet.
  • Prioritizing stress management: Stress and anxiety are both tied to TMD. Chronic stress left unaddressed can lead to numerous symptoms that affect more than just your TMJ health. Finding the right stress management techniques for you can help address the underlying cause of your TMD.

Pairing Pain Management Techniques with Professional Care

The best way to manage TMJ pain is through a course of TMD treatment with a specialized dental practice. Through our multi-step treatment plan, patients can enjoy a long-term solution designed to pacify chronic facial pain and other debilitating symptoms. Pairing home pain management techniques with professional care can provide a comprehensive solution for you or a loved one.

More About Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center

Dr. Michael Gallagher and our Eden Prairie Dentistry team are committed to providing exceptional care and empowering our patients with information about their dental health. If you have any questions about our services or would like to schedule an appointment, we invite you to give us a call at (952) 942-9600. The outstanding experience of our dental team, Dr. Gallagher, and the skills of our staff have helped us in successfully treating our patient’s oral problems. We’re always welcoming new patients throughout Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, Plymouth, Eagan, Richfield and surrounding areas. For more information, please contact us!

IMAGE CREDIT: www.pixabay.com Contributor: https://veganliftz.com

Professional Credentials & Memberships