how to fix lock jaw immediately

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is responsible for opening and closing your mouth (along with other basic functions linked to these actions). It is an underappreciated joint but once you lose the ability to perform these functions, you understand its value.

Locked jaw is a prime example of a time when you realize the importance of your TMJ. The movement of your jaw, such chewing and talking, is controlled by the TMJ. If it is stressed or misaligned, it can affect your jaw's movement (or lack of it).

How Does Locked Jaw Happen?

Locked jaw is technically known as trismus. It happens when your jaw muscles spasm. It "locks" your jaw in a specific position, disabling the capacity to move or achieve a wide range of motion. It can be painful and could result in various complications. When this happens to you or someone, make sure you know the proper way to address it.

Jaw Locked Open

When your jaw locks open, it can be easy to get into a panic mode. But remember that stress on your TMJ due to teeth grinding and other factors has contributed to this lockjaw situation in the first place. There are ways in which you can restore function in your TMJ to be able to move your jaws again.

The most important thing to remember is to not panic. If this happens to someone else, try your best to keep them calm.

locked jaw open

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Apply heat to the jaw area immediately. You can use a heat pack for this. The moist heat can help to relax the muscles around the jaw and eventually loosen it. Leave the heat pad on for 30 minutes (or more) before attempting to move the locked jaw. Otherwise, this can aggravate the situation.

After a few minutes of heat application, gently try to move your jaw from side to side. It is important to emphasize the slow and gradual movements to give your muscles time to relax. But make sure to keep the movement consistent as it can facilitate in putting the joints back into place.

You can also use your hands to guide your jaw's movement if you are unable to initiate movement in this area. Gently wiggle the jaw from side to side but never tug or press too hard.

If in case this initial treatment does not work, you can call in a TMD expert.