The jaw joint complex of the teeth, muscles and joints – The jaw joints aspect – Part 4 – The Sounds – Home Treatment
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Popping sounds themselves may not necessarily need treatment however pain associated with it may need to be dealt with. This includes the following treatments at home:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Nurofen, ibuprofen, or other types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling in the jaw.
- Heat and ice packs: Place an ice pack (wrapped in a towel to avoid a cold burn) on the jaw joint area for 10-15 minutes, then a warm pack for 5-10 minutes, may help reduce symptoms. This switching between hot and cold pack can be done many times a day if necessary.
Avoid hard or crunchy foods: hard & solid foods, raw vegetables or chewy foods, e.g. caramel, may make the jaw popping and other symptoms worse. Instead eat soft foods, e.g. yogurts, cooked vegetables, mashed potato and beans.
Food should be eaten in small bites to avoid opening the mouth too wide.
Rest the jaw: The rest position of the jaw muscles is NOT fully closed but the jaw slightly open. This means NO contact with the teeth.
This can be done by saying letter “M”.
Stress management: Many people when stressed can teeth grind (bruxism) and/or jaw clench. Meditation, exercise, and deep-breathing exercises can help control stress.
Avoid overextending the jaw: Avoid movements that involve opening the mouth wide, such as a full yawn, yelling, singing, and chewing gum.
Keep good posture: A good neck and back posture helps a good jaw posture. Also changing body posture regularly is helpful.
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