ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — TMJ disorders can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. The exact cause of TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine. According to the National Institute of Health it afflicts up to 33 million Americans. Ivanhoe explains the dangers of having surgery for TMJ and some natural treatments to consider first.
If you hear a pop or click when you open up your jaw. It’s a sign of TMJ disorder, for every man with TMJ, nine women suffer from it.
Ray Becker, DDS, FAGD, Cosmetic and Restorative Dentist at Howard County Smiles says, “It’s not something that is unfortunately addressed as often as it should be, but it’s a significant issue.”
Doctor Becker warns that sometimes surgery for TMJ leads to issues like an injury to facial nerve, limited motions or Frey Syndrome — a rare complication that causes abnormal face sweating.
“Some have had no dentistry done and have significant issues, some have had a lot of dentistry done and have a significant issue,” Becker says.
So, what are some natural ways to treat TMJ? Eat soft stews, smoothies, soups, and steamed vegetables to reduce joint pain and swelling, adding omega-3 fatty acids can fight inflammation and improve circulation. Doctor Becker also believes … “There could be a psychological component in fairness … stress.”
Simple self-care routines, like deep breathing, meditating, and yoga will help you get better sleep. Or apply a hot or cold pack to your jaw for 15 to 20 minutes. Ice helps reduce swelling and pain, heat can increase blood flow and relax your jaw muscles. If the pain or discomfort persists, go to your dentist for advice.
Another natural way — stretch out your jaw. According to Cleveland Clinic one way you can do this is put your tongue on the roof of your mouth, hold your mouth open for six seconds and then repeat six times.
Contributors to this news report include: Cliff Tumetel, Producer; Chuck Bennethum, Editor.
Sources:
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tmj-chronic-pain-metal-jaws-futile-treatments/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941
https://www.dentalcareburke.com/natural-remedies-to-address-a-tmj-flare-up
* For More Information, Contact: Ray Becker, DDS, FAGD
Howard County Smiles
410-415-9013
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