Self Care Tips for Jaw Area Pain and Dysfunction

Jaw area pain and dysfunction:

Behavioral Changes

• Maintain soft diet
• Avoid excessive jaw function, such as chewing gum
• Relax or meditate daily

Health Enhancement

• Minimize sugar, caffeine and alcohol
• Apply warm compresses
• Massage affected area
• Exercise daily
• Take nutritional supplements
• Drink plenty of water

Postural Correction

• Maintain teeth apart, relaxed jaw posture
• Wear night mouth guard
• Avoid forward head posture
• Sit in ergonomically designed seat
• Sleep with head and neck support

Non-Prescription Medication

• Anti-inflammatories
• Sedative herbal teas
• Antihistamines
• Topical analgesic creams