Patients with TMD conditions will receive significant benefit from allowing their bodies to rest and break the cycle of facial pain and discomfort. Chronic discomfort often leads to poor quality of sleep, which can lead to further pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm.
Rest is available in many ways: lightening the weight of purses/groceries, gentle stretching and yoga, or deep breathing and meditation are ways of taking it easy. Some patients may be advised to follow a modified softer diet, or to take vitamin supplements.
In cases of acute swelling within the jaw joint, anti-inflammatory medicines and moist heat are very comforting. In addition to feeling better, the resolution of the swelling is critical to preventing more permanent damage to the tissues within the TMJ.
