When you suffer from the painful side-effects of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, your dentist has options available to help alleviate discomfort and put your jaw back into proper alignment. However, despite your best intentions in getting treatment, you could be making your symptoms worse without even realizing it. Here are six behaviors many patients don’t realize are dangerous with TMJ dysfunction, and one safe, effective way to get lasting relief with the help of your dentist!
Chewing Gum & Hard Foods
Though many people have never even heard of it, your temporomandibular joint is the most used joint in the entire body. Thus, when you choose to chew on things like bubblegum that provides no nutrients, you are exposing it to undue, excess strain, making it important to quit.
Additionally, it may also be beneficial to replace harder foods with a softer, easier to chew diet. So, instead of crunchy raw fruits and veggies, try steaming, roasting, or pureeing them, and avoid tough proteins like steak, opting instead for ground beef, chicken, or fish, all of which are much easier to break down.
Jaw Clenching
If you suffer from Bruxism (teeth grinding) this can put excess tension on your temporomandibular joints and can even result in lockjaw and worn or broken teeth. If you find yourself clenching your jaw, or wake up with unexplained stiffness and pain, talk to your dentist about a custom mouthguard.
Resting on Your Chin
Whether you’re bored, tired, or simply deep in thought, it’s not uncommon to rest your head on your chin from time to time. Unfortunately, this can be very bad for your temporomandibular joints and may even push them out of proper alignment. Thus, the next time you’re feeling tired, try leaning backwards in your chair, get up and stretch, or go find a comfortable place to rest that won’t put excess pressure on your jaw.
Chewing on Only One Side
While it’s understandable that you’d want to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that is experiencing jaw pain from a TMJ disorder, by doing so you can actually worsen the strain on the other side, knocking it out of alignment, too. Thus, to maintain proper balance, try to chew your food equally on both sides and switch to a softer diet if necessary.
Poor Posture
Poor posture is notorious for creating backaches and even headaches, but did you know it can also negatively affect your temporomandibular joints? That’s because your jaw is most efficient when your head is positioned above your cervical spine, and when you slouch, it can affect the functionality of the opening and closing of your mouth. If you find yourself struggling to maintain proper posture, consult a physical therapist for help.
Smoking & Vaping
Smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco can all increase your risk of cancer, heart disease, gum disease, and even cavities and tooth decay. But did you know it can also worsen TMJ disorder pain? That’s because one of its most harmful and notorious active ingredients, nicotine, can cause muscle tension and inflammation as well as redirect blood flow, making healing from TMJ strain difficult. Thus, for the sake of your oral and overall health, if you use any of these products, do your best to quit.
Treating TMJ Disorder
If you suffer from a TMJ disorder, the good news is that your dentist has a solution to help. With a custom made oral appliance, you can reposition the jaw to reduce tension and maintain proper alignment, eliminating the painful side-effects of TMJ disorders. In the meantime, do your best to quit these six potentially harmful behaviors, and to learn more about oral appliance therapy, contact your dentist today!
About Dr. Saati
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his BA at Boston University and his dental doctorate at Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He proudly maintains membership in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Massachusetts Dental Society, just to name a few. To learn more about your TMJ disorder treatment options, schedule a consultation by visiting our website or calling 978-531-2185.