When you’re experiencing pain from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) you may be willing to try just about anything to make it stop. But while over-the-counter pain medications may be helpful in some cases, sometimes you may want to try a more natural means of relief. Enter aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to treat myriad ailments. Whether it’s to boost your mood, clear your sinuses, or relax the muscles, there is likely an essential oil you can try as a remedy. If you’re wondering if you should try essential oils to treat TMD, here’s what you should know before you get started.
What is TMD?
Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, is a condition that occurs when the jawbone is misaligned. This can cause jaw pain; a popping or clicking sound when you open and close your mouth; neck, shoulder, and back pain; headaches; tinnitus, and difficulty chewing or speaking. TMD has many causes, including genetics or injury, and treatments will vary depending on the individual.
Using Aromatherapy to Treat TMD
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils to improve the body and mind. Oils can be inhaled or applied directly to the skin, but this depends on the type of oil and the area needing treatment.
For TMD, some experts suggest that lavender oil might help promote pain relief. In fact, a study published in the Hindawi Journal found that when used in conjunction with acupressure therapy, patients with neck pain who used lavender oil experienced greater relief than those who did not incorporate lavender oil into their treatment.
While this is good news for those looking to take a more holistic approach to pain management, it is important to note that the oils were used in addition to a secondary form of treatment.
The Bottom Line About Essential Oils
If you do decide to try using essential oils to help reduce your TMD symptoms, it is important to note a few important points:
- Not all oils are equal. Some contain vegetable oil or synthetic ingredients.
- Oils are not regulated by the FDA and are considered a cosmetic treatment.
Furthermore, oils can be dangerous if not used properly, so if you do decide to try them, be sure to speak to your doctor or dentist first to determine how to use them safely. You should also go over any medications you may be taking to ensure that the oil you intend to use will not interfere with them.
If you’re looking for a time-honored way to help reduce your TMD pain, incorporating essential oils to your dentist-approved treatment could be the answer. Just be sure to get the green light from your doctor or dentist first.
About Dr. Balington
Dr. Todd Balington treats patients of all ages, from pediatric to geriatric. As a Florida native, he began practicing in DFW in 2009, and today is happy to be a member of the Denton community. If you need dental services from general dentistry to cosmetic and even TMD treatment, trust Dr. Balington and the team at Denton Dental Center to help.
To schedule an appointment to start getting your TMD under control, please contact us by visiting our website or calling 940-242-2401.