Why You Want to Avoid Chewing Gum if You Struggle with Tmj Pain
Posted on 9/16/2024 by Surprise Oral & Implant Surgery |
 Jaw pain, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. This joint, located on both sides of your face just in front of your ears, connects your lower jaw to your skull. It allows you to move your jaw smoothly for talking, chewing, and other essential functions. When the TMJ is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
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Jaw pain and tenderness |
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Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw |
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Difficulty opening and closing the mouth |
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Locking of the jaw |
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Headaches |
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see an oral surgeon or other dental professional for diagnosis and treatment. Many factors can contribute to TMJ pain, including arthritis, jaw injury, and teeth grinding. One factor that is often overlooked is chewing gum.
Chewing Gum: Not a Friend to Your TMJ
While chewing gum might seem like a harmless habit, it can actually worsen TMJ pain. Here's why:
Increases Jaw Muscle Activity: Chewing gum puts constant strain on the muscles that control the jaw joint. This repeated overuse can lead to fatigue and inflammation, worsening pain and discomfort.
Overloads the Joint: Chewing gum creates a significant amount of force on the TMJ. This continuous pressure can overload the joint, further stressing the already irritated tissues.
Promotes Bruxism: Many people who chew gum unconsciously clench their jaw while doing so. This can lead to teeth grinding, another major contributor to TMJ pain.
Breaking the Chewing Gum Habit
If you struggle with TMJ pain, it is important to break the chewing gum habit. This can be difficult at first, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier:
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Gradually reduce your gum consumption: Start by chewing gum for shorter periods of time or chewing fewer pieces per day. |
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Choose sugar-free gum: Sugar-free gum may contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce inflammation. |
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Find alternative stress relievers: If you chew gum to relieve stress, find healthier alternatives such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music. |
Prioritizing Oral Health for TMJ Relief
In addition to avoiding chewing gum, there are several other things you can do to manage TMJ pain and promote good oral health. These include:
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Practicing good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. |
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Eating a healthy diet: Choose soft foods that are easy to chew and avoid hard, chewy foods. |
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Applying heat or ice packs: This can help to reduce inflammation and pain. |
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Taking over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can provide temporary relief. |
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Wearing a mouth guard: This can help to protect your teeth and jaw joint from further damage. |
Consult Your Oral Surgeon for Personalized Advice
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, it is important to see a qualified oral surgeon. They will be able to assess your individual situation and develop a treatment plan to address your specific needs. This may include a combination of the measures listed above and other treatment options, such as physical therapy or injections.
With proper management and by avoiding triggers like chewing gum, you can find relief from your TMJ pain and improve your overall oral health and well-being.
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