Always warm up your jaw before you massage it so it is less tense and locked. Apply the heat pack or compress several times a day, 10-15 minutes at a time, to help manage your locked jaw.
This will help to warm up the muscles and stimulate the area, which can cause it loosen up. Repeat the massage on the other side of your jaw to loosen it as well.
You should feel your mandible muscle release over time as you apply pressure to it. For some people, this release can help to unlock their jaw or make it feel less tense.
You can also place two fingers on the mandible muscle and two fingers on your upper jaw. Then, move your fingers toward each other until the tips of your fingers sit between both areas. Keep your fingers in place for a few seconds to release the area. Ask a friend or partner to help you with this massage if you find it difficult to do on your own.
You can also try wiggling your jaw up and down using your hands as a guide. Rub your jaw lightly with your fingers as you move it up and down to help loosen it. If your jaw does not move at all or it is very painful when you try to massage it and move it, see your doctor right away. Do not force your jaw to move, as this can damage it further.
If you do not see improvement in your jaw after 2-3 days, go see your doctor.
You may prop your head up with a thin pillow if you find this more comfortable for your jaw and face.
Repeat these movements 5-10 times, inhaling each time you open your mouth and exhaling each time you close your mouth. Do not force your mouth to open and close if it starts to tense up or feel tight. Let your jaw rest when needed so you do not damage it further.
Do this 5-10 times on each side. If your jaw starts to hurt or tense up, take a break. Do not overexert your jaw, as this can make it worse.
If your jaw does not loosen up or becomes more painful, go see your doctor for treatment.
Your doctor may prescribe medicine to treat your locked jaw or TMJ, such as NSAIDs like Aspirin or ibuprofen, pain relievers, muscle relaxers, anti-anxiety medicine, or a low-dose anti-depressant. Talk to your doctor before you add any medications, even if they are over-the-counter.
In some cases, your doctor will get an MRI done of your jaw to get a closer look at your TMJ.
This procedure can be done in your doctor’s office and is not usually painful. You will need to maintain a liquid diet for several days after the procedure to allow your jaw to recover.
Botox injections in your jaw muscles should only be used occasionally, as too much Botox can cause your jaw muscles to weaken. Keep in mind your health insurance may not cover the use of Botox injections, as they may be considered a cosmetic treatment. Check with your insurance provider for more information.
In most cases, doing jaw massage and exercises, as well using a mouthguard, is enough to prevent locked jaw from returning.
Make sure the mouthguard fits you well and that you wear it every night. Regular use of a mouthguard can prevent lockjaw and keep your jaw healthy.
When you eat foods, make sure you do not open your mouth too wide, as this can cause the disc in your jaw to shift. Chew your food slowly and carefully so you do not bite down too hard or shift your jaw out of place.
You can also spend time with friends and family to de-stress so you stay healthy and relaxed.
