There are many reasons why your jaw may lock. It could be due to an injury, arthritis, or even clenching your teeth too hard. However, the most common reason for jaw locking is due to TMJ disorder.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. This disorder can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, as well as jaw locking.
If you think you may have TMJ disorder, it’s important to see a doctor or dentist so they can properly diagnose and treat the condition. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help relieve your symptoms.
How to reduce symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Ice can help reduce inflammation and pain. Place an ice pack on your jaw for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
If you’re experiencing a lot of muscle tension, try massaging the muscles around your jaw. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Avoid hard or chewy foods, as well as gum chewing. Eating softer foods will help reduce the amount of stress on your jaw joint.
Practice good posture. When you sit or stand, make sure your shoulders are back and your head is level. This will help take the pressure off of your jaw.
If you clench or grind your teeth, try to break the habit. This can be difficult, but it’s important in order to reduce the stress on your jaw joint. You may need to see a dentist or orthodontist for a mouth guard to wear at night.
TMJ disorder is a common condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With proper treatment and care, you can find relief from your symptoms and live a pain-free life.
