What Can You Do When TMJ Pain Comes Back?
Living with TMJ disorder is not easy. Sometimes, even after treatment, the pain can return. When that happens, you may feel frustrated and unsure of what to do. However, there are simple steps you can take to reduce the discomfort — even if just a little. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder articles series…
1. Apply Cold or Warm Compresses
To begin with, try placing a cold pack on the side of your face where the pain is strongest. This may help reduce inflammation. If cold doesn’t help, a warm compress can sometimes ease muscle tension. In fact, alternating between cold and warm may offer short-term relief.
2. Eat Soft Foods
As the pain increases, chewing becomes harder. Therefore, it’s best to switch to soft or blended foods during flare-ups. For example, soups, mashed vegetables, yogurt, and smoothies can be easier to manage. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods, at least for a few days.
3. Limit Jaw Movement
While you may want to yawn or speak freely, doing so can make things worse. Instead, try to keep your jaw at rest. That means avoiding wide mouth opening, chewing gum, or biting into large items like sandwiches or apples.
4. Use Gentle Jaw Stretches
In some cases, light jaw stretches may reduce stiffness. But be careful. If any movement increases the pain, stop right away. Slow and controlled movements, done in front of a mirror, can help you stay aware of how your jaw reacts.
5. Take Medications Carefully
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol may help reduce pain and inflammation. Still, they should be used with caution and not too often. Long-term use can have side effects. Also, if your doctor has given you muscle relaxants, only use them as prescribed.
6. Manage Stress
TMJ pain often worsens during stress. Therefore, it may help to practice simple breathing exercises. Even closing your eyes for a few minutes and focusing on your breath can make a difference. In addition, avoid clenching your jaw when you’re tense — many people do this without noticing.
7. Try Sleeping on Your Back
Sleeping on your side may put pressure on the jaw. As a result, you might wake up with more pain. Instead, try sleeping on your back with a pillow that supports your neck. This can help keep your jaw in a more relaxed position.
8. Avoid Self-Manipulation
Although it may feel like stretching or pushing your jaw might help, avoid doing this. Forced movements can increase inflammation or cause injury. It’s always safer to wait or consult a specialist before trying anything aggressive.
At least, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder only can be fixed with a permanent treatment!
In Summary
TMJ pain can come back unexpectedly. Even so, there are ways to reduce the intensity and cope until you can reach your doctor. Cold packs, soft foods, and jaw rest are simple but often helpful. Medication can help too — but only when used properly. Most importantly, pay attention to your body and avoid anything that makes the pain worse.
If pain becomes frequent or severe, you should contact a TMJ specialist. Temporary steps may help, but they are not a cure. Regular follow-up and tailored treatment are the only reliable ways to manage this condition in the long term.
Prof. Dr. Mustafa TEK
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon – Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatments