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Relieve TMJ Symptoms with These Gentle Exercises: Strengthening and Stretching for Jaw Health

Relieve TMJ Symptoms with These Gentle Exercises: Strengthening and Stretching for Jaw Health

Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. TMJ can cause a range of symptoms, such as pain in the jaw, face, and neck, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth. While the exact cause of TMJ is often unknown, it can be triggered by various factors such as stress, teeth grinding, or jaw injuries. While there are various treatment options available for TMJ, including medications, therapy, and surgery, gentle exercises can also be helpful for managing the symptoms. However, it’s crucial to consult with a TMJ specialist before starting any exercise regimen. For those in the Los Angeles area, Dr. Bruce Vafa is a renowned TMJ specialist who can provide expert guidance and personalized treatment options to alleviate TMJ discomfort.

See Also: Will insurance cover botox for TMJ

Exercises that can help improve TMJ (temporomandibular joint) symptoms

Jaw Exercises:

  • Jaw Opening: Slowly open your mouth as wide as possible and hold the position for 5-10 seconds. Relax your jaw and repeat 5-10 times.
  • Jaw Closing: Slowly close your mouth, taking care not to clench your teeth. Hold the position for 5-10 seconds and repeat 5-10 times.
  • Side-to-Side Jaw Movement: Move your jaw from side to side in a gentle, slow motion. Repeat 5-10 times.

Tongue Exercises

  • Tongue to Roof of Mouth: Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your front teeth. Apply gentle pressure and hold for 5-10 seconds. Relax and repeat 5-10 times.
  • Tongue to Bottom of Mouth: Touch the tip of your tongue to the bottom of your mouth and hold for 5-10 seconds. Relax and repeat 5-10 times.

Neck and Shoulder Exercises:

  • Shoulder Rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backward in a circular motion. Repeat 5-10 times.
  • Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head to the left, bringing your left ear towards your left shoulder. Hold for 5-10 seconds and repeat on the right side.

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It’s important to note that these exercises should be done gently and without causing pain. If you experience pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult with a healthcare professional. Additionally, it’s important to maintain good posture, avoid chewing gum or hard foods, and reduce stress to help manage TMJ symptoms.

While the exercises mentioned above can be helpful for managing TMJ symptoms, it’s important to note that they may not be suitable for everyone. If you experience pain or discomfort while performing any of the exercises, stop immediately and consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a TMJ specialist. A TMJ specialist can evaluate your specific condition and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you’re in the Los Angeles area, consider consulting with Dr. Bruce Vafa, who is a specialist in TMJ pain and has extensive experience in providing personalized care to his patients. Remember that proper diagnosis and treatment can help you manage your TMJ symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life.

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