What is what to do when tmj flares up?

When a TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) flare-up occurs, here are some things you can do to manage the pain and discomfort:

• Rest the Jaw: Avoid activities that aggravate your TMJ, such as chewing gum, eating hard or chewy foods, and excessive talking. This gives the joint a chance to recover. See: Resting%20the%20Jaw

• Apply Heat or Cold: Use a warm compress or ice pack on the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day. Heat can relax the muscles, while cold can reduce inflammation. See: Heat%20or%20Cold

• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with pain but does not reduce inflammation. Always follow dosage instructions. See: Pain%20Relief

• Soft Food Diet: Stick to a soft food diet to minimize strain on the jaw joint. Examples include yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and cooked vegetables. See: Soft%20Food%20Diet

• Gentle Jaw Exercises: Perform gentle jaw exercises as recommended by your doctor or physical therapist. These exercises can help improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension. Don't overdo it and stop if you feel pain. See: Jaw%20Exercises

• Stress Management: Stress can contribute to TMJ pain. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation. See: Stress%20Management

• Avoid Clenching or Grinding: Be mindful of clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep. If you clench or grind at night, talk to your dentist about a night guard. See: Clenching%20or%20Grinding

• Good Posture: Maintain good posture to avoid putting extra strain on your jaw and neck muscles. See: Good%20Posture

• See a Doctor or Dentist: If your TMJ pain is severe or persistent, consult a doctor or dentist. They can evaluate your condition and recommend further treatment options, such as muscle relaxants, physical therapy, or, in some cases, surgery. See: Doctor%20or%20Dentist