You’ve been struggling with a painful TMJ disorder that has significantly decreased your quality of life. Naturally, you want to find relief as soon as possible, which is why you’ve been researching your treatment options. Recently, you stumbled across an unexpected potential solution: using essential oils to relieve TMJ pain. Is this an approach worth pursuing in your case? Here’s what your dentist wants you to know.
What Exactly is a TMJ Disorder?
A TMJ disorder is a problem with the joints attaching your lower jaw to your skull. It involves inflammation of your jaw joints, which can result in significant discomfort. The condition can potentially be the consequence of an injury, an unbalanced bite, or other risk factors.
In addition to jaw pain, TMJ disorders can also potentially lead to headaches, tinnitus, neck pain, limited jaw movement, and other symptoms.
Can Essential Oils Help with TMJ Disorder?
While essential oils have not been formally approved as a method for treating TMJ disorder, there is research indicating that they may be able to help patients find relief from their symptoms. For example, a 2020 study published in the Journal of Craniomandibular & Sleep Practice found that performing aromatherapy massages with lavender oil could be used to manage TMJ-related pain.
On top of that, lavender and other essential oils can help reduce stress. This is significant because stress is often linked to unconscious grinding of the teeth, which is known to contribute to jaw problems. By using essential oils to aid with stress relief, you might also see an improvement in your TMJ symptoms.
With all that said, essential oils are not yet a fully proven solution for TMJ disorder. As such, it’s best to explore other forms of treatment if you want to achieve lasting relief from chronic jaw pain.
How Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated?
TMJ disorder can be addressed in a variety of ways depending on what the cause of the condition is. Below is a list of treatments that your dentist might recommend:
- Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustments: Adjustments can be made to your teeth to help them fit together properly. This improves the balance of your bite and ensures that the jaw joints aren’t exposed to too much pressure.
- Occlusal Splints: An occlusal splint is a simple oral appliance that can slightly reposition your jaw and provide protection against teeth grinding, which can go a long way toward relieving TMJ-related symptoms.
- Trigger Point Injections: In order to jumpstart the healing process and alleviate your discomfort, your dentist can inject a local anesthetic in the most sensitive or painful parts of the muscles near your jaw joints.
Since TMJ disorders can potentially grow worse over time, you’ll want to begin treatment as soon as possible. Reach out to your dentist today to find out how they can help with your jaw pain.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol initially practiced dentistry in India; once he moved to the United States, he ran a dental office in Chico before eventually moving to San Ramon. At his current practice, Oak Ridge Dental, he provides a wide range of dental services, which includes a variety of treatments for TMJ disorder including equilibration and occlusal splints. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
