Have heard ice pack first and then warm compress after for tmj?

Heat TMJ: Keep the area warm with moist heat, keep teeth apart and move jaw in all directions gently and most important see your dentist to get a nightguard to prevent joint and tooth damage from grinding.

Self care : Ice application as well as warm compresses can help with temporomandibular disorders. I have had patients who have been able to manage their symptoms completely using ice application followed by warm compresses.

Change it: Use warm moist heat and a NSAID such as Ibuprofen for the jaw if it is sore. Most likely cold will cause the musculature to stiffen and feel worse. Apply warm moist heat (use a wet washcloth that has been in the microwave for 10-20 sec, test it on your forearm first!) over the affected joint. Use Ibuprofen also. A softer diet helps until the jaw loosens.

Either: Try both. Actual inflammation usually responds better to cold. Muscular pain usually response better to heat. Try both, whatever makes it feel better is the right one.

Moist Heat First: Use moist heat to relaxes tight muscles and joints, increase blood flow and relieve pain. Use Ice to decreases inflammation and reduce swelling. See Orofacial Pain specialist for assessment.