Jaw pain can be uncomfortable and even debilitating, but you don’t need to rely on conventional medications in order to find relief. Essential oils are a natural, holistic alternative to pain relief that can be just as effective as traditional treatments without any of the side effects. This article will explore the benefits of essential oils for jaw pain relief and provide tips for using them safely and effectively.
What essential oils are most effective for relieving jaw pain?
Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, and chamomile are all effective for relieving jaw pain. Peppermint can help to relax the muscles of the jaw, while eucalyptus can help to reduce inflammation. Lavender and chamomile both have calming properties that can help to reduce stress and tension in the jaw. Additionally, a mixture of essential oils can be used to create a massage oil specifically formulated for relieving jaw pain.
Are there any essential oils that should be avoided when treating jaw pain?
Yes, there are a few essential oils that should be avoided when treating jaw pain. Peppermint, clove, and cinnamon essential oils can cause irritation and potentially worsen the pain. Additionally, some oils such as eucalyptus and rosemary may interact with certain medications, so it is best to check with a doctor before using them.
How often should essential oils be applied to the jaw area to reduce pain?
Essential oils should be applied to the jaw area 2-3 times a day to reduce pain. It is best to apply the essential oils directly to the jawline and gently massage them into the skin. For best results, it is also recommended to use a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil.
Are there any potential side effects of using essential oils for jaw pain?
Yes, there are potential side effects of using essential oils for jaw pain. These side effects may include skin irritation, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. People with skin allergies or sensitivities should use caution when using essential oils, as they can cause an allergic reaction. It is also important to dilute the essential oil before applying it to the skin. Additionally, using too much essential oil can cause an adverse reaction. If any side effects occur, then it is best to seek medical advice.
Does the use of essential oils for jaw pain have any effect on overall health and wellbeing?
The use of essential oils for jaw pain may help alleviate the symptoms of jaw pain, but it is not proven to have any effect on overall health and wellbeing. However, using essential oils to relax and reduce stress may have a positive impact on overall health and wellbeing. Additionally, some essential oils, such as peppermint and lavender, may have anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation in the jaw area and provide relief from pain.
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, located at the base of the skill that connects the upper jaw maxilla and the lower jaw mandible. The mandible has a rounded protrusion the fits snuggly against an indention in the skull. An articular disc, or piece of cartilage, is nestled between the two bones. Ligaments hold these three pieces of the TMJ together. Those ligaments originate from different areas of the neck and head and support movement of the lower jaw. The TMJ opens your mouth in two different ways. The first is similar to a door hinge, allowing you to open and close your mouth. A sliding motion, called translation, is the second movement made by the TMJ. This type of movement allows the lower jaw to shift back and forth or side to side. Translation is most beneficial for yawning, eating, and talking. The TMJ is like any other joint in your body. With overuse or a fracture, the joint will become sore and you may notice swelling. Speak with your Shelton dentist before attempting any TMJ home remedies, but heat and ice are often used to remedy swelling and soreness. The hot and cold compresses will treat the muscles and ligaments surrounding the joint to slowly eliminate the pain. When there are problems with your face or jaw muscles, your CT dentist may diagnose you with temporomandibular disorder TMD. Only a professional dentist should diagnose a TMD condition or offer a pain treatment plan. Some TMD symptoms may be indicators of another oral issue. The most common TMD symptoms include. Teeth grinding is one of the most common reasons for a sore joint. Stress at home or work can also cause irregular or aggressive jaw movement , attributing to discomfort in the TMJ. Routine visits to your CT dentist will reveal if teeth grinding, or another bad habit, is the cause of your joint soreness. When your CT dentist makes a TMJ diagnosis , they will explain there is no single cure for the condition. There are several ways to treat the pain, including over-the-counter medications and TMJ home remedies. No one treatment will work for all TMJ pain sufferers, but there are numerous treatment options to consider to find the one that works best for you. Moist heat or an ice pack can be pressed on the sore area to temporarily relieve swelling and pain. If your CT dentist notices signs of teeth grinding, they may recommend a bite plate or splint to help reduce the harmful effects of grinding and clenching. The appliance is custom designed for your mouth only and is worn over the upper teeth to stop them from grinding against the lower teeth. Before you begin any essential oil treatment, get the all-clear from your dentist. Next, compare essential oil brands. Not all essential oils are created equal, and for the best results, you need a product that is percent oil. Products that are diluted with synthetic ingredients may cause a skin reaction. A natural remedy for TMJ is peppermint essential oil. This oil is very potent, so it should be diluted with a pure carrier oil, like coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil. Use one teaspoon of carrier oil for every one drop of peppermint oil. The peppermint works by relaxing the jaw and face muscles and easing the pain. Other pain-relieving essential oils include lavender and eucalyptus. Lavender helps relax muscles and is a great night-time treatment, as the lavender is a natural sleep aid. Eucalyptus is a good solution for sinus congestion and headache sufferers. Ask your Shelton dentist if TMJ stretches may be beneficial for your situation. Only perform the stretches given to you by your dentist. There are different types of TMJ stretches strengthening, relaxation, and stretching and each needs to be performed at the appropriate time to be effective. In a few cases, surgery to correct jaw imbalances may be necessary. This is typically a last resort treatment, so consult with your trusted CT dentist before considering the procedure. Preventative health is the best way to avoid TMJ disorder or pain. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine dental cleanings and exams to ensure a lifelong healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today! What Is TMJ? Constant soreness in the ear, jaw, or face Migraine-like headaches, pressure behind the eyes, and earaches Popping or clicking sound when you open or close your mouth TMJ pain can be caused by challenges other than TMD.
For A Healthier Smile. Oral Health Education. Freshen up your inbox with exclusive offers, pro tips, and other smile-worthy treats from Colgate. Sign up now. Homeopathic treatment for pain is a growing trend. You might have even used an essential oil or natural salve to soothe an ache or cramp. But when it comes to treating oral pain, specifically TMJ disorders, are essential oils considered a treatment option? TMJ, or the temporomandibular joint, is a joint that connects your skull to your jaw, and you have one on either side of your face.