Once jaw tension starts, it can build up quickly and cause headaches, neck pain, dental sensitivity, and other problems. Jaw discomfort can impact your sleep, work, and life when you don’t know how to find relief. Here are 5 ways to stop jaw discomfort that work.

1. Notice When You Clench

Often, jaw discomfort stems from teeth clenching or grinding, which can happen unconsciously. Here’s how to spot the signs:

Teeth Together at Rest: Notice if your top and bottom teeth touch when your jaw is relaxed (not talking or eating).
Tongue Imprints: Check for indentations along the edges of your tongue, which can be caused by teeth clenching.

If you see these signs, TMJ treatment in Albuquerque, NM can help! At Uptown Dental Associates, we offer various TMJ treatment options like relaxation techniques and custom nightguards to address jaw clenching and find relief from discomfort. Don’t wait – schedule an appointment and get back to feeling your best!

2. Practice Meditation

One of the best ways to stop jaw discomfort is to relieve stress. This is because jaw discomfort is often caused by tension that can be exacerbated by stress. Practicing meditation can be a great way to relax your mind and body. If meditation doesn’t seem to work for you, try doing whatever helps to calm your mind and body and lower your stress levels, whether it’s yoga, a hot bath, a walk in nature, or a nap!

3. Avoid Excessive Chewing

Chewing gum or eating foods that are especially chewy, such as bagels or caramels, can tire your jaw out and lead to extra discomfort. If your jaw is feeling especially tender, see if it helps to give it a rest for a few days by eating soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.

4. Try a Mouthguard

A mouthguard can be helpful if your jaw tends to tense up when you’re sleeping, or driving, or at other times when you may be unable to consciously keep your jaw relaxed. A mouthguard can help to retrain your jaw to not tense up and provide relief from the symptoms of teeth clenching and grinding.

5. Visit Your Dentist

If you’ve tried various methods to stop jaw discomfort and relief remains elusive, it’s time to see an Albuquerque dentist! At Uptown Dental Associates, we understand the frustration of persistent jaw pain. Our dentists can assess your situation and recommend solutions like custom-fitted mouthguards or jaw therapy exercises. Don’t live with discomfort – let Uptown Dental Associates help you find relief and get back to feeling your best!