If you know trendy people (or are a trendy person yourself), you’re probably familiar with the sound of a diffuser misting essential oil fragrances through the air. Of course, these ointments can also be applied topically to the skin, leading some to try and use them medicinally. This begs the question: are essential oils simply a fancy placebo, or can they actually relieve issues like chronic TMJ pain?
In short: sort of. If you experience frequent jaw discomfort, you might want to keep reading.
What the Research Shows
Studies about the effectiveness of essential oils as pain relievers are…nuanced. While soothing scents like lavender and peppermint do seem to have some positive impact on a patient’s pain perception, researchers note that the results aren’t lasting. In other words, essential oils can’t cure chronic pain, but they can help manage symptoms when used alongside corrective treatments.
A lot of this has to do with the calming effect of aromatherapy. Certain fragrances are known to promote relaxation, which can reduce muscle tension – something that could definitely be beneficial if you have a tight TMJ.
Risks to be Wary Of
A very important thing to keep in mind when diving into the world of essential oils is that it’s completely unregulated. The FDA considers these ointments to be cosmetics because they can’t technically treat or prevent health issues. Basically, this makes it all to easy for less than reputable companies to dilute the oils with ingredients like vegetable oil. You’ll have to do some careful research to make sure you’re not getting a cheap or impure product.
Another risk to be wary of is your skin’s potential reaction to the oils. They can be quite potent, and some patients experience issues with allergies, itchiness, or redness. Finally, essential oils can be dangerous for some pets. Be sure to protect your furry friends and ask Google before you buy!
In Conclusion
You shouldn’t expect essential oils to cure your TMJ disorder. They’re not a long-term solution, and can’t physically fix the issue that’s causing your discomfort. However, they might be able to help you relax and reduce the tension in your facial muscles. Just make sure you do your research and consult with your doctor first.
About the Practice
Dr. Carlisle Vason and Dr. Kristen Grisham are both highly accomplished and experienced dentists. Not every practice can offer TMJ therapy, but thanks to Dr. Vason and Dr. Grisham’s combined skills, you can receive effective TMJ treatment here at Vason Family Dentistry of Buckhead. To learn more about how we can relieve your chronic TMJ pain, contact our office at 404-367-9799 or request an appointment online.