How to relieve temporomandibular joint dysfunction?

TMJ: The first step is to see your dentist or a dentist who specializes in TMJ and get evaluated. 99% of people need only a night guard to prevent grinding and clenching that result in unusual wear and loss of tooth structure at the gum line. Generally stress (the american disease) is the cause so try to control your stress;exercise, meditate or whatever works for you.

Bite/night guard: A lot of TMJ dysfunction can be lessened with guard.

A few ideas: Depends on symptoms, and cause of symptoms. 3 signs of TMJ dysfunction: joint noises, joint pain & limited oral opening. Self treat with soft diet, jaw exercises, massage, heat/cold, OTC pain meds. A splint or physical therapy would be next. Occasionally muscle relaxants, biofeedback. Xrays are done for diagnosis. Surgery usually reserved for serious symptoms not responsive to other treatments.