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The Surprising Everyday Actions That Make TMJ Worse

Posted on August 2nd, 2024 by

TMJ Worse

Do you find yourself clenching your jaw or experiencing pain while chewing?

You might be unknowingly aggravating your temporomandibular joint without even realizing it.

This blog post will uncover the surprising everyday actions that could worsen your TMJ symptoms.

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This complex joint allows you to open and close your mouth, facilitating essential functions like talking, chewing, and yawning.

TMJ disorder, or TMD, refers to various conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles.

The precise cause of TMJ disorder is typically complex and can differ from individual to individual. Factors like teeth grinding (bruxism), misalignment of the jaw, arthritis, and even TMJ stress may all play a role in triggering TMJ symptoms.

Symptoms of TMJ may include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully, headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can lead to conditions such as lockjaw.

What are Some Things That Make TMJ Worse?

Several factors can exacerbate TMJ disorder symptoms. These include:

  1. Teeth Grinding: Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth can strain the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ symptoms.
  2. Chewing Gum: Excessive chewing, especially gum, can overwork the jaw muscles and aggravate TMJ discomfort.
  3. Poor Posture: Slouching or awkwardly holding the head and neck can strain the muscles and contribute to TMJ problems.
  4. Stress: Emotional stress can lead to tension in the jaw muscles, exacerbating TMJ symptoms.
  5. Certain Foods: Foods that require extensive chewing or are hard can strain the jaw joint and aggravate TMJ discomfort.
  6. Yawning Widely: Yawning excessively or opening the mouth wide can strain the TMJ and worsen symptoms.
  7. Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your stomach or with your head in an awkward position can put pressure on the jaw joint and exacerbate TMJ issues.
  8. Clenching Teeth: Clenching the teeth, especially during stress or concentration, can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
  9. Excessive Talking: Does talking make TMJ worse? Yes. Speaking for extended periods or loudly can strain the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ discomfort.
  10. Using the Jaw Excessively: Activities that require extensive jaw movement, such as singing or playing wind instruments, can exacerbate TMJ symptoms if done excessively.

What are Some Things That Make TMJ Better?

There are several things that help TMJ disorder symptoms and improve overall jaw function.

These include:

Night Guards

Wearing a custom-fitted night guard or splint prescribed by a top Chicago TMJ Specialist can help prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep, reducing strain on the jaw joint and alleviating TMJ discomfort.

Botox Injections

In some cases, botox injections into the jaw muscles can help reduce muscle tension and alleviate TMJ-related pain and stiffness.

Stress Management

Stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies and activities that promote relaxation can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles and alleviate TMJ stress.

Bite Treatments

Orthodontic treatments or dental adjustments by top Chicago Dentists to improve the alignment of the bite can help alleviate TMJ symptoms caused by misalignment or malocclusion. These include Invisalign and dental implants.

Avoiding Hard or Chewy Foods

Avoiding foods that require extensive chewing or strain on the jaw joint can help reduce TMJ discomfort and prevent worsening symptoms.

Maintaining Good Posture

Proper posture, especially in the neck and upper back, can help reduce strain on the jaw muscles and improve TMJ function.

TMJ Treatments at Art of Modern Dentistry in Chicago

Are you searching for solutions that will make your TMJ better?

Art of Modern Dentistry has treatments to help you feel better.

Our cosmetic dentistry services include botox injections, dental implants, and Invisalign.

Furthermore, we’ll prepare an effective stress management plan to improve your TMJ and overall health.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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