At Fulbright Dental, we understand the debilitating effects of TMJ disorders. The discomfort and pain can interfere with everyday activities like speaking, eating, and even sleeping. Fortunately, there are exercises that can help alleviate these symptoms and improve the functionality of your jaw. This article will guide you through some of these exercises, which can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement. The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine. It could be a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, although many people habitually clench their teeth and never develop TMJ disorders.

Symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:

• Pain or tenderness in your jaw
• Aching pain in and around your ear
• Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
• Aching facial pain
• Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth

Simple Exercises for TMJ Pain Relief

There are several exercises that can help relieve the pain caused by TMJ disorders. These exercises are designed to relax the jaw and reduce tension in the muscles. It’s important to remember that while these exercises can help alleviate symptoms, they are not a replacement for professional medical advice.

Here are some exercises you can try:

• Jaw joint stretch: This exercise involves opening your mouth as wide as comfortably possible and then slowly closing it. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
• Chin tucks: Sit up straight and slowly tuck your chin towards your chest without moving your shoulders. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then relax. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
• Tongue up: With your mouth closed, position your tongue on the roof of your mouth and slowly open your mouth without moving your tongue. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

How Often Should You Perform TMJ Exercises?

The frequency of performing these exercises can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. However, as a general rule, these exercises should be performed daily for the best results. It’s also important to remember that while these exercises can help alleviate symptoms, they are not a cure for TMJ disorders. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek professional help.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Be consistent: Make these exercises a part of your daily routine.
• Be gentle: Avoid any exercises that cause pain or discomfort.
• Be patient: It might take some time before you start seeing improvements.

When to Seek Professional Help

While TMJ exercises can provide some relief, they are not a substitute for professional treatment. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite performing these exercises, it’s crucial to seek professional help. At Fulbright Dental, we offer a range of treatments for TMJ disorders, from non-invasive therapies to surgical options.

Here are some signs that you should seek professional help:

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite performing TMJ exercises.
• You have difficulty eating or speaking due to jaw pain.
• Your jaw locks or clicks when you open or close your mouth.
• You experience frequent headaches or earaches.

Reach Out to Fulbright Dental in Manhattan Beach

At Fulbright Dental, we are committed to helping our patients live pain-free lives. If you are struggling with TMJ disorders, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of experienced professionals, led by Dr. Fulbright and Dr. Faist, is ready to provide you with the care and treatment you need in Manhattan Beach. Call us today at (310) 357-1266 to schedule an appointment