10 Things That Make TMJ Worse

Over 10 million Americans experience TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), which causes significant pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and nearby muscles. Managing TMJ can be difficult, so it’s important to understand what can make the condition worse to help control it better. The following are the 10 things that make TMJ worse. 

1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding your teeth, often during sleep, puts extra pressure on the jaw joints and muscles, leading to inflammation, pain, and even tooth damage. Stress is a common cause of grinding, so addressing both stress and the habit itself is important.

2. Poor Posture

Slouching or leaning your head forward can strain your jaw muscles and worsen TMJ pain. Good posture, which means keeping your head aligned with your spine, can reduce this strain and help relieve discomfort.

3. Stress and Anxiety

Stress can cause jaw clenching and muscle tension, making TMJ symptoms worse. Anxiety may also increase pain sensitivity. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy can help reduce these effects.

4. Chewing Hard Foods

Hard foods like nuts, ice, or tough meats can overwork your jaw and increase pain. Stick to softer foods that are easier to chew to minimize strain on your jaw.

5. Excessive Gum Chewing

Chewing gum for long periods can tire out the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ symptoms. Reducing or avoiding gum chewing can help ease discomfort.

6. Overusing the Jaw

Talking a lot or doing activities that involve prolonged jaw movement can cause muscle fatigue and pain. Taking breaks to rest your jaw can help manage symptoms.

7. Certain Foods (e.g., Apples)

Firm foods like apples can be difficult to bite into, worsening jaw pain. Opt for softer alternatives like applesauce or smoothies to avoid unnecessary strain.

8. Smoking

Smoking may worsen TMJ pain by affecting blood flow and increasing inflammation. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and may help reduce TMJ symptoms.

9. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal shifts, such as those during menstruation or menopause, can affect muscle tension and pain sensitivity, worsening TMJ symptoms. Understanding these changes can help with symptom management.

10. Lack of Sleep

Poor sleep can increase stress and jaw tension, which can worsen TMJ symptoms. Ensuring good sleep habits can reduce stress and may alleviate jaw pain.

Things That Make TMJ Better

To effectively manage TMJ symptoms, you can take the following measures:

• Gentle jaw exercises like stretching and chin tucks can improve movement and ease tension.
• Massaging the jaw muscles reduces tightness and improves blood flow, relieving pain.
• Apply heat to relax muscles or cold packs to reduce swelling and numb pain. Alternate for 10-15 minutes.
• Practice deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to lower stress and prevent jaw clenching or teeth grinding.
• Use a bite guard during sleep to protect teeth, reduce grinding, and relieve pressure on the jaw.
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, or smoothies to rest the jaw and minimize strain.
• Work with a specialist for exercises and techniques to improve jaw function and posture.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed muscle relaxants to manage pain and tension.
• Acupuncture can help relieve TMJ pain by stimulating nerves and reducing discomfort.
• If needed, dental treatments or braces can correct bite issues and reduce jaw strain.

Final Word

TMJ can be uncomfortable and annoying. However, you can manage it better if you steer clear of the 10 things that make TMJ worse. Visit our seasoned dental professional, Dr. Nallapaneni, at Riverside Family Dental. Our doctor has graduated with his DDS degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dial (586) 468-0983 to book an appointment.