The pain can be unbearable, so what options do you have for relief? You might have tried ibuprofen, or other pain relievers, to no avail—there’s still that constant ache hanging out. The pain of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can be frustrating at times, but we have another option that might help: hot and cold packs. With the use of hot and cold packs, you can find relief from your TMD pain.

Hot and Cold Packs for Pain Relief

For many people who suffer from TMD, symptoms experienced can be difficult to manage. If you suffer from jaw pain, it is important to understand the risks faced and how you can manage pain using some home remedies. However, sometimes you will need more than just a home remedy, so be prepared. Let’s answer the question, are hot and cold packs effective in providing relief from pain?
Yes! Hot and cold packs do not treat symptoms of TMD, but they do work to help alleviate the aches and pains you might be experiencing.

Start by applying a hot pack (moist heat is best) to the neck, temples, or facial muscles for 10-20 minutes. Next, perform recommended stretches and/or exercises to help in the process to keep the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) from remaining stiff. After stretching is complete, apply ice directly to the joint, which is right in front of your ear. This routine should be repeated a few times each day to help alleviate your pain and stiffness caused by TMD. But remember, this won’t eliminate your symptoms completely, so seek treatment as soon as you can.

Oral Appliances for Long-term Care

A long-term solution for treating your TMD is through oral appliance therapy. Yes, hot packs and ice might help briefly when it comes to aches and pains, but this should not be the only form of treatment you seek. The availability of oral appliance therapy allows Dr. Ledermann and Dr. Hakala to help in the treatment of your TMD symptoms. Oral appliance therapy can successfully manage and treat complex conditions, such as TMD—better than the temporary relief from hot and cold packs.
Contact the Minnesota Craniofacial Center, P.C. for more information on TMD and oral appliance therapy.