Yes, it is absolutely possible to pull a muscle in your jaw as there are quite a number of muscles, tendons and ligaments in the area of your temporomandibular joint, one of the most common causes of TMJ problems (TMD) is from pulled or strained muscles.
Will a Strained Jaw Muscle Resolve by Itself?
Sometimes, but will usually depend on the cause of the stain. Like any other part of the body, your jaw joint needs rest if it has been sprained or strained. If the muscles in your jaw joint have tightened up, you can treat the discomfort as you would any other muscle strain – with compresses and NSAIDs (do not take NSAIDs if you have a history of sensitivity to this type of medication).
A Soft-Food Diet is Important
Like your knee, your TMJ is in use all of the time – so the more rest you give your jaw joint, the faster a pulled jaw muscle can heal. If you have a strained jaw joint, try to avoid opening your mouth widely – for example, yawn with less opening of your mouth if possible, and don’t “open wide” to eat a large sandwich. Additionally, avoid eating hard foods like corn chips or ice and no chewing gum! These activities can further strain the muscle, and cause it to take longer to heal.
We Would Love to Be Your Dallas Dental Team
We are always welcoming new patients. I provide General & Cosmetic Dentistry, including Veneers, Teeth Whitening and Smile Design, TMJ Therapy & Facial Pain Relief, BioRejuvenation Dentistry, Sleep Apnea Therapy Utilizing the proven Vivos Method, A Biologic Alternative to Conventional Crowns with Biomimetic Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Periodontal Health, Invisalign Clear Aligners, & Dental Implants.
I became a Dentist in 2001 because I believe I have been called to help people transform their current dental health status by purposefully moving forward towards health, wellness, vitality, and longevity. I am passionate about helping people live a better life and have a more fulfilling future through optimal dental health. I have developed a special interest in helping patients who suffer from bite problems, facial pain, headache pain, and TMJ disorders.
With my extensive training and expertise, including ongoing continuing education course work to sharpen my skills and acquire the latest advancements in Bioesthetic Rejuvenation Dentistry, I can offer a variety of treatment options to restore worn, damaged and missing teeth with exceptionally functional aesthetic results.
I’d like to invite you to call us today (972) 661-3666 to schedule your appointment and start your journey to better health. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Though my office is located in Dallas, I also see many patients from Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Denton, Richardson, Grapevine, and the surrounding areas.
To Your Health,
Dr. James Segulyev, DDS
Segulyev Dental Arts – Dallas, Texas Dentist