For a tmj flare, can i only use cold packs until flare up subsides? heat seems to make it worse. if a dental professional or oral and maxillofacial surgeon respond it would be greatly appreciated*?

TMJ: TMJ is a chronic condition caused by stress and involves jaw clenching. Hopefully you have a bite guard to protect your teeth/molars at night. If you are experiencing pain and swelling in the TMJ area, use Ibuprofen 400-600mg 4 times a day for 5 days to alleviate the inflammation and pain. Do not use for longer than 10 days as it can irritate the lining of your stomach. You can continue ice packs.

You figured int out: If heat makes it worse, an d cold helps. Use cold compresses exclusively. But what you are doing is treating symptoms, not the cause. Please see your Dentist, an Orofacial Pain Specialist, a specialist Oral Surgeon, or a Specialist Orthodontist, to begin the diagnostic/treatment process. Professional care, rather than self-directed experimentation, is needed.