TMJ Home Remedy

While it is not clearly defined whether TMJ is a bone and cartilage issue or muscle and ligament problem, it is a condition in which your jaw is in constant pain. Those who suffer from TMJ can have problems chewing because of the strain on their jaw. There are many home remedies that can help you deal with the pain caused by TMJ.

Get the blood flowing

• Get the blood flowing to your jaw. You can do this by applying cold or hot packs (do not alternate the two). Apply the pack to the side of your jaw for a few minutes. This will get the blood flowing to the joints and you should feel some relief. Also, try massaging the sides of your jaw frequently.

Stretching Exercises

• Do some mouth exercises two times a day for about five minutes. Sit straight up in a chair or on the floor. Close your mouth. Rest the tip of your tongue on your palate, behind the top front teeth. Next run the tip of your tongue backward onto the palate as far back as it can go. After that, press the tongue back to maintain contact with your palate and very slowly open your mouth until your tongue pulls away from your palate. Hold this position for five to 10 seconds, then close your mouth. Relax for a few seconds and repeat this for five minutes.

Change your diet

• Eating extremely chewy foods will definitely aggravate your pain. Stay away from chewing gum, which will only tire out your joints. Also, avoid bagels, which are hard to chew. Try to include more soft and liquid foods. For instance, eat a smoothie for lunch, and try yogurt, mashed potatoes or oatmeal. The softer the food, the less work your jaw will have to do, and you will soon feel better.