How to Manage TMJ Pain Without Missing a Beat
TMJ pain can stop you in your tracks—chewing, talking, even smiling may suddenly feel uncomfortable or even sharp. Knowing how to manage TMJ pain early on makes all the difference in preventing it from becoming a daily disruption. At Westport Dental, Dr. Sathvik Seshadri and Dr. Shikha Chopra understand how frustrating and confusing jaw pain can be. Every week, we see patients who are trying to live their lives while dealing with clicking, soreness, or tension in their jaws. You are not alone in this. Whether you’ve never heard of TMJ before today or have struggled for years, we’re here to help you understand what’s going on and help you find relief. How to Manage TMJ Pain at Home: Simple Steps Wondering how to manage TMJ pain before your appointment? There’s a lot you can do at home to ease tension and protect your jaw. Try soft foods that don’t require much chewing, like yogurt, soups, or scrambled eggs. Apply a warm compress to your jaw three or four times a day to help relax tight muscles. Over-the-counter pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication (as your doctor recommends) can also help. Other instant fixes: Avoid chewing gum and hard candies. Practice gentle jaw stretches and relaxation exercises. Don’t rest your jaw in your hand or hold your phone between your ear and your shoulder. Small changes mean less stress for your jaw. If things don’t improve, please don’t hesitate to call us. When Should You Call a Dentist About Jaw Pain? Most TMJ pain goes away with home care, but sometimes it’s a sign you need extra help. Call Westport Dental if your pain lasts more than a week, spreads to your ear or neck, or comes with frequent jaw locking or severe headaches. Sudden changes like trouble opening your mouth, grating noises with every bite, or swelling that keeps coming back aren’t things to ignore. Dr. Seshadri and Dr. Chopra have significant experience figuring out tricky cases, so you won’t leave with more questions than answers. Let’s help you find some solutions and enjoy mealtimes again—your jaw deserves it. How Westport Dental Helps With TMJ Troubles Managing TMJ isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our team starts by listening—really listening—to your story. Dr. Seshadri and Dr. Chopra examine your jaw movement, assess muscle tenderness, and discuss your daily habits. We can use thorough exams and digital X-rays to rule out other issues. For many people, a custom mouthguard, gentle treatment, or simple lifestyle tweaks bring noticeable relief. Some patients may need jaw exercises or a more tailored plan. We don’t rush—we want you to feel heard and supported. Our friendly staff makes sure you feel at home, from the moment you walk in until you find relief. Everyday Habits to Support Jaw Health Preventing jaw pain tomorrow starts with simple changes today. Use both sides of your mouth when chewing to balance muscle use. Stay mindful of stress: when you feel anxious, notice if you’re clenching your jaw and try relaxation techniques. Avoid biting your nails, pens, or ice, and discuss with us the option of replacing missing teeth, as gaps can affect your bite. Some extra things to keep in mind: Sleep on your back with a small pillow for neck support. Take breaks from talking or chewing if your jaw feels tired. Keep up with routine dental visits. We’ll work with you to build these habits and keep your jaw moving smoothly. Ready to Get Back to Comfort? Jaw pain doesn’t have to run your life. If you’re looking for advice on how to manage TMJ pain—or want lasting relief—Westport Dental is ready to help. Dr. Seshadri, Dr. Chopra, and our caring team take pride in helping Westport, MA, families navigate challenging dental issues with honesty, patience, and personalized options. You’ll find a modern office, flexible appointments, and a group of professionals who truly care about your comfort. Contact us today and take your first step toward a comfortable, pain-free jaw! Our services range from restorative dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, including everything in between and beyond! And we even offer an in-house dental savings plan!
