Passing the Smell Test: TMJD and Essential Oils

Essential oils have long and storied history. They have been used for a variety of purposes for thousands of years, and given how pleasant they are to have around, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular.

They’ve long been used for medicinal purposes, and this tradition carries into the present day.. For example, you might have heard of them being used to deal with the pain associated with TMJD, an issue related to the jaw. If you’re curious, here’s what you should know about using essential oils to manage this condition.

What is TMJD?

First of all, as a recap, it’s important to talk about what TMJD actually is. The TMJ are joints that connect the jaw to the rest of the face. In certain cases, these joints may come out of alignment for a variety of reasons, leading to jaw pain and stiffness. This is known as TMJD, or a TMJ disorder.

Should I Use Essential Oils to Treat TMJD?

First of all, it’s worth noting that there is currently no medical consensus as to the effectiveness of essential oils in treating TMJD. While there is certainly some interesting research in the field, using essential oils to the exclusion of other, evidence-based treatments is generally not a good idea.

If you think that you have TMJD, it’s a good idea to talk to a dentist. They’ll be able to diagnose you and talk to you about treatment options.

However, there has been some evidence of aromatherapy’s effectiveness in managing the symptoms of chronic, painful disorders like TMJD. In some cases, they can be effective when used in conjunction with other kinds of treatment. That being the case, you might ask your dentist about whether incorporating essential oils into your treatment plan could help with relaxation and pain management.

How is TMJD Typically Treated?
If you’re wondering, dentists will usually recommend treating TMJD with an oral appliance. This can be incorporated into some forms of orthodontics, though more often you’ll have to wear a stand-alone each night in order to correct the alignment of your jaw.

About the Author

Dr. John Moneyhun is a dentist who values his relationships with his patients above all else. Being able to invite patients, both new and old, into his office and to show them how efficient and comfortable dentistry can be. Dr. Moneyhun received his dental degree from MUSC, where he received the South Carolina Dental Association award for academic achievement. He continues his studies with the world-renowned Dawson Academy to stay on top of his field.

If you have any questions about TMJ, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (864) 800-1691.