Several TMJ pain treatment options can alleviate inflammation in your jaw joints. These include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), over-the-counter medications, and surgery. You should always consult your doctor before trying any new jaw pain treatment in Naperville.
Cold and Moist Heat
Applying moist heat or cold compress to the affected area can help relieve the pain and swelling. It can help to relax the muscles that surround the joint socket. Applying the heat or cold compress for at least 20 minutes a day may help. You can experiment with different methods until you find what works best for you.
Applying a cold pack can help numb the painful area and increase circulation to the site. It can also help to relax muscles and improve function. To use the cold compress:
- Place it on both sides of the affected area.
- Hold it on the affected area for ten to fifteen minutes, alternating sides.
- Always remember to cover the area with a clean cloth.
Heat and cold can also help relieve pain and swelling in the jaw. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce the swelling and numb the muscles. However, don’t apply the cold pack if you’re shivering. Applying ice to the affected area is not recommended if you feel the pain is severe. You may use moist heat to relieve the pain.
Hot and cold TMJ pain treatment works best when applied for more extended periods. The heat helps relieve muscle pain and inflammation, while cold helps relax the jaw joints. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, apply a hot or cold compress to the affected area for 15 minutes. It is also a good idea to do some exercises and stretches. To get the best results from home treatments, follow the instructions carefully. If the pain is persistent, consult with a pain specialist for further treatment.
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help get rid of inflammation in your jaw joints. However, you must make sure that the cold compress is not too hot or too cold because it can burn you or the affected area. It is important to note that both types of TMJ joint pain treatment work to reduce pain and swelling, but neither is effective in getting rid of TMJ.
Heat also helps relax the soft tissues and muscles of your jaw joints. Many cases of TMJ disorder occur due to an unconscious habit called bruxism. The pattern involves clenching your jaw at night and may also be a sign of sleep apnea.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are popular anti-inflammatory drugs that work on a chemical level to decrease pain and inflammation. These drugs block the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that help your body fight inflammation. This reduces pain and inflammation, which can lead to headaches and fever. However, not all NSAIDs have the same benefits. For example, aspirin helps prevent heart attacks by preventing blood clots.
NSAIDs come in a variety of forms, including tablets, gels, creams, and injections. Some can be purchased over the counter, while others require a prescription. You can find them in generic and brand names, so it is important to read the instructions on the package before using NSAIDs.
NSAIDs can reduce the inflammation TMJ pain causes. They work by blocking the COX enzyme, which significantly contributes to inflammation in the body. The body produces two types of cyclooxygenases: COX-1 protects the stomach lining, and COX-2 plays a role in inflammation. Most NSAIDs interfere with both, which can lead to stomach ulcers. Selective COX-2 inhibitors target the COX-2 enzyme specifically, avoiding the risk of ulcers.
NSAIDs are important for managing arthritis and jaw pain symptoms in Illinois and are readily available and inexpensive. Celecoxib is particularly useful for long-term use and is easier on your stomach than other NSAIDs. They work by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzymes in the body, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. COX-1 protects the stomach lining, while COX-2 is responsible for inflammation. Most NSAIDs block both Coxs.
There are many possible side effects of NSAIDs. They can irritate the stomach lining, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication. However, NSAIDs are safe to take when taken correctly. But they can also be harmful if taken in excess. If you overdose, you can experience nausea, stomach upset, or even a loss of consciousness.
While NSAIDs can help with acute localized TMJ inflammation, they are not always as effective for chronic TMJ pain. More studies are needed to determine if they are worth using for this purpose. Overuse of NSAIDs for joint pain causes gastric ulcers, affects heart function, and blood clotting. They can also interact with drugs, including lithium, methotrexate, and ACE inhibitors.
When taking NSAIDs, it is important to follow the recommended dosage. These drugs should be taken as directed by your general physician and should take effect within 1 to two days. Depending on the amount of pain, some NSAIDs may take up to seven days to have their full effect. If NSAIDs don’t work, your general physician may recommend taking a more potent painkiller or prescribing exercise and physiotherapy.
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medications
Several over-the-counter medications can reduce inflammation in your jaw joints. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are great for jaw pain symptoms in Illinois. If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t effective, healthcare providers can prescribe stronger NSAIDs or narcotic analgesics. Other options include muscle relaxants that can relax your jaw muscles and anti-anxiety drugs that can reduce stress.
If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t enough, you can also try stretching exercises to help your jaw muscles relax. If the pain persists, you may consider visiting a physical therapist to learn how to relieve it quickly. A physical therapist can help you with stretching and massage exercises that will strengthen the muscles in your jaw. Alternatively, you can try acupuncture, which involves inserting hair-thin needles in specific points on the body.
Over-the-counter pain relievers are often effective for mild to moderate pain, but these drugs can have side effects and interact poorly with other medications. You may want to talk to your dentist before choosing an OTC pain reliever. They can give you advice on which medication will work best for you and also provide you with a phone number to call in case of an emergency.
Oral Surgery
Patients who have chronic jaw pain may opt for minimally invasive surgery to eliminate pain and stiffness caused by inflammation in the jaw joint. During this procedure, sterile fluid is injected into the joint to flush out excess fluids and inflammation. The surgeon may also manipulate the jaw to break up scar tissue and realign it to its correct position. They may also inject pain-relieving medications into the jaw to help the healing process. The procedure may result in some bruising and swelling, but this should subside within a few days. This type of surgery for jaw pain treatment in Naperville is often minor, and patients can go home the same day.
Surgery to eliminate inflammation in your jaw joint usually takes a half-hour to two hours. After the procedure, you will be placed in a recovery room where nurses will assist you. After the procedure, you will need to rest for two to three days and take pain medication to minimize discomfort. Your jaw may be wired shut for the first couple of weeks, but you can gradually resume your normal activities. Your surgeon may prescribe a special diet or stretching exercises to help you recover from your surgery.
Surgery to eliminate inflammation in your jaw joint may involve a minimally invasive procedure called arthrocentesis. Tiny needles are inserted into the jaw joint during this procedure, and the fluid is removed to help relieve the jaw pain symptoms in Illinois. Corticosteroids may also be used to ease the discomfort associated with TMJ disorders.
Surgery to get rid of inflammation in your jaw joint may not be an option for everyone, but it is viable if the pain persists. The surgery usually lasts three to four hours and requires a general anesthetic. You will need to spend a couple of days recovering in the hospital. Afterward, you must wait at least a month before returning to your regular activities. In some cases, you may even need to take a three or four-week break from work to recover.
AUTHOR BIO
Dominic Robinson has been writing for the healthcare industry for years to become a legacy guest author. His educational background in the medical sciences provides a solid foundation and credibility to approach many health-related issues. Still, he especially enjoys preparing scientifically-backed pieces on modern-day medical problems.