I was just diagnosed with tmj. what should i do?

TMJ: I would suggest starting with a complete exam by your dentist. 99% of patients get better with a night guard. Many patients who have occlusal disorders benefit from orthodontics and then do not need the night guard.

Special care: I suggest evaluation by someone with a special interest in tmj. Consider neuromuscular dentistry. The focus is to stabilize the lower jaw position where all parts of the biting system are balanced and relaxed. Specialized computer equipment and tens can very effectively improve or resolve your symptoms with a reversible bite appliance. Once you feel better, there are more permanent solutions.

See a specialist: I would like to know who offered you the diagnosis of tmj. Was it your doctor, dentist, chiropractor, ent, physical therapist, tmj/tmd specialist? You should really see a tmj/tmd specialist to proceed from there.

Few things.: 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.

See OFP doctor: Orofacial Pain provides diagnosis and management of pain in the face, TMJ disorders, locking jaw as well as, associated headaches and neck pain. They are the experts in this field. Good luck.