~Rest the joint. Avoid chewy foods: gums, bagels, pizza crusts, etc.
~Use heat and ice compresses on the joint.
~Take NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), which can help reduce swelling and pain.
Get a night guard
~If you find that you are clenching and grinding at night a guard can help relieve stress on the jaw joint.
Put your tongue to the roof of your mouth
~If you catch yourself clenching or grinding during the day, the simple act of placing your tongue to the roof of your mouth will make you aware of it and provide separation of your teeth.
~Massaging the muscles around the jaw will increase blood flow to the area and loosen tight muscles surrounding the jaw joint.
