by Sleep Better Columbus | May 5, 2025 | TMJ/TMD
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain affects millions of people, leading to discomfort, difficulty with daily activities, and reduced quality of life. Understanding the habits exacerbating this pain is key to managing symptoms and finding relief. In this post, we will discuss 12 common habits that can worsen TMJ pain, offering practical advice on how to avoid them. We’ll also explore TMJ treatment options that may help reduce discomfort and improve overall jaw health.
Understanding TMJ and How It Affects Your Life
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull, allowing essential movements such as chewing and speaking. When this joint is affected by disorders, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited jaw mobility. TMJ disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, injury, or poor posture, and they often lead to chronic discomfort.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders often have a variety of symptoms. Common signs include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty opening the mouth, headaches, earaches, and a popping or clicking sound in the jaw. Due to the interconnectedness of the muscles involved in jaw movement, people may also experience neck or shoulder pain in some cases.
TMJ Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available for those suffering from TMJ pain. Noninvasive treatments such as physical therapy, jaw exercises, and the use of mouthguards or splints can help manage symptoms. Medical professionals may recommend medications, injections, or even surgery in more severe cases. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of the disorder.
Poor Posture and TMJ Pain
How Bad Posture Affects Your Jaw
Poor posture can significantly impact the temporomandibular joint. Slouching or leaning forward while sitting or standing can place unnecessary strain on the muscles and ligaments surrounding the jaw. This misalignment can cause or worsen TMJ symptoms as the neck, shoulders, and jaw muscles become tense and fatigued. Over time, poor posture can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
Correcting Your Posture for TMJ Relief
Proper posture is essential for reducing TMJ pain. To improve posture, individuals should ensure their head is aligned with the spine and avoid slouching. When sitting, keep the shoulders back and the feet flat on the floor, providing the spine is straight. Additionally, ergonomic adjustments to workspaces, such as using chairs that support the lower back and keeping screens at eye level, can reduce strain on the body and alleviate TMJ discomfort.
By making small changes to posture throughout the day, people can experience less pressure on the jaw and reduce the intensity of TMJ pain.
Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
The Impact of Teeth Grinding on TMJ
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is one of the most common habits that worsen TMJ pain. People often grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep or in response to stress. This excessive pressure on the teeth and jaw can lead to wear and tear on the teeth, as well as inflammation and pain in the temporomandibular joint. Over time, this constant pressure can result in significant TMJ damage.
How to Stop Clenching Your Jaw at Night
Jaw clenching and teeth grinding are often habits developed during sleep, making them difficult to control. One of the most effective solutions is using a custom-fitted mouthguard or splint. These devices are designed to protect the teeth from grinding and reduce the strain on the jaw. A dentist can help create a mouthguard that fits comfortably and offers the necessary support to prevent further damage to the TMJ.
Additionally, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed can help reduce stress, which may reduce the urge to clench or grind the teeth at night.
Using Mouthguards for Protection
Mouthguards are a simple and effective solution for individuals who grind their teeth at night. By providing a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, mouthguards can reduce the pressure placed on the jaw, minimizing the impact of bruxism on the temporomandibular joint. For the best results, getting a custom-fitted mouthguard from a dentist is important to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Addressing these habits can help individuals reduce the strain on their jaw and manage TMJ pain more effectively. The next sections will explore other habits that can exacerbate TMJ discomfort and offer strategies for improvement.
Chewing Gum Too Frequently
How Constant Chewing Can Exacerbate TMJ
While chewing gum may seem like a harmless activity, it can significantly worsen TMJ pain, especially when done frequently. The repetitive motion of chewing places continuous strain on the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint. Over time, this can lead to muscle fatigue, increased tension, and heightened discomfort in those already suffering from TMJ disorders. Additionally, prolonged gum chewing can irritate the surrounding tissues, exacerbating inflammation and pain.
Alternatives to Chewing Gum
To avoid aggravating TMJ pain, limiting or eliminating gum chewing is best. Instead, try alternatives such as sucking on a sugar-free lozenge or enjoying soft foods that don’t require excessive jaw movement. For those who rely on gum as a stress reliever, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness to reduce tension without stressing the jaw.
Eating Hard or Tough Foods
Foods That Can Put Excess Pressure on the Jaw
Hard, tough, or chewy foods can significantly contribute to TMJ pain. Eating foods like raw vegetables, tough meats, or hard candies can force the jaw to exert excessive pressure, triggering or worsening pain and inflammation in the temporomandibular joint. Constantly biting and chewing such foods can increase the likelihood of jaw strain and discomfort, especially for those with pre-existing TMJ issues.
How to Modify Your Diet for TMJ Relief
Individuals suffering from TMJ pain should consider switching to a diet that minimizes strain on the jaw. Soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soups are ideal alternatives. By avoiding foods that require excessive chewing, the jaw can rest and recover, which may help alleviate TMJ symptoms. Cutting food into smaller, bite-sized pieces is also beneficial to make eating easier and reduce unnecessary jaw movements.
Excessive Jaw Movements and Yawning
How Large Yawns Can Aggravate TMJ
Yawning is a natural, involuntary action, but wide or excessive yawning can put undue stress on the temporomandibular joint. Opening the mouth wide can stretch the jaw muscles and ligaments, leading to increased tension and pain in those with TMJ disorders. Repeated large yawns or overstretching the jaw can also worsen inflammation in the joint, intensifying TMJ discomfort.
Limiting Jaw Movement for TMJ Pain Management
It’s helpful to try yawning more gently to reduce the strain caused by yawning. If yawning becomes painful or uncomfortable, individuals can try to control the movement by placing a hand on the chin and limiting the jaw’s range of motion. Additionally, keeping the jaw relaxed and avoiding wide, exaggerated yawns can minimize the risk of aggravating TMJ symptoms.
Stress and Anxiety: The TMJ Connection
The Role of Stress in TMJ Disorders
Stress is a common trigger for TMJ pain, as it can lead to unconscious teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and muscle tension. Individuals under high stress are more likely to develop habits that contribute to TMJ disorders, such as clenching the jaw or tightening the facial muscles. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain and stiffness in the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
Relaxation Techniques to Ease TMJ Pain
Managing stress is a critical component of TMJ pain relief. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Incorporating these techniques into your routine can help prevent stress-induced jaw clenching and reduce the likelihood of TMJ flare-ups. Additionally, engaging in hobbies or activities that promote relaxation, such as reading or taking walks, can also be beneficial in managing overall stress levels.
Addressing these habits and taking steps to prevent them from aggravating TMJ pain is essential for improving quality of life. In the following sections, we will continue to discuss additional habits that can contribute to TMJ discomfort and explore practical strategies for managing pain.
Sleeping on Your Stomach or Side
Why Sleep Position Matters for TMJ
The way you sleep can directly impact the severity of TMJ pain. Sleeping on your stomach or side can place added pressure on your jaw, especially if your head is turned to one side for an extended period. This misalignment can strain the muscles and ligaments of the jaw, exacerbating pain and discomfort. Additionally, sleeping in these positions can contribute to poor posture throughout the night, which further aggravates TMJ symptoms.
Ideal Sleep Positions for TMJ Relief
For better TMJ management, sleeping on your back with your head supported by a proper pillow is recommended. This position helps keep the spine and jaw aligned, reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint. If you struggle with sleeping on your back, try using a pillow that supports the neck in a neutral position to reduce the tendency to turn your head. You may also benefit from using a contoured pillow to maintain proper alignment while sleeping.
Using Poor Pillow Support
The Importance of Proper Pillow Support for TMJ
Using the wrong pillow can contribute to TMJ pain, especially if it fails to support the neck and head properly. A pillow that is too high, too firm, or too flat can place strain on the jaw muscles and joints, exacerbating TMJ symptoms. The key to preventing this is ensuring that the pillow keeps the head and neck aligned with the spine, providing proper support to reduce unnecessary pressure on the jaw.
Choosing the Right Pillow for TMJ Pain
A pillow explicitly designed for TMJ sufferers often provides extra support for the neck and head. Look for options that maintain the natural curve of the cervical spine while allowing for comfortable head positioning. Memory foam pillows or orthopedic pillows are great options, as they provide firm yet comfortable support. Testing different pillows can help find the best choice to support a neutral sleeping position and alleviate TMJ-related pain.
Smoking and TMJ Pain
How Smoking Affects Jaw Health
Smoking can contribute to TMJ pain in a variety of ways. The chemicals in tobacco can reduce blood flow to the muscles and tissues surrounding the jaw, impairing healing and increasing the risk of inflammation. Additionally, smoking can exacerbate stress, leading to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, both of which are known to worsen TMJ pain. Smokers may also experience slower recovery from TMJ injuries or treatments due to compromised circulation.
Benefits of Quitting Smoking for TMJ Relief
Quitting smoking offers numerous benefits for TMJ sufferers. By eliminating the harmful effects of tobacco on the jaw, individuals may experience reduced inflammation, better blood circulation, and faster healing. Furthermore, quitting smoking can help manage stress and anxiety levels, further reducing the risk of jaw clenching or teeth grinding. For those struggling to quit, seeking professional guidance or support can be an effective way to reduce both the health and TMJ-related risks associated with smoking.
Ignoring TMJ Pain Symptoms
Why It’s Important to Seek Treatment Early
Many people ignore the early symptoms of TMJ pain, hoping it will go away on its own. However, ignoring TMJ symptoms can lead to more severe issues over time, such as permanent damage to the joint, muscle degeneration, and chronic pain. Seeking treatment early can help prevent the worsening of symptoms and improve the chances of successful management through conservative treatments.
The Risks of Untreated TMJ Pain
Untreated TMJ pain can progress to more complex problems, including difficulty with eating or speaking, severe headaches, and neck pain. Early intervention, such as visiting a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment options, can prevent the condition from worsening and help manage symptoms before they escalate.
Overexertion and Heavy Lifting
How Heavy Lifting Can Strain Your Jaw
Excessive physical strain from heavy lifting or intense physical activity can significantly impact the jaw. Individuals may inadvertently tense their jaw or neck muscles when lifting heavy objects, leading to TMJ pain or discomfort. The additional muscle tension can place stress on the jaw, especially if done repeatedly.
Tips for Avoiding TMJ Flare-Ups During Physical Activity
To prevent exacerbating TMJ pain during heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity, it’s important to maintain proper posture and technique. Avoid holding your breath while lifting, as this can increase pressure on the neck and jaw. Instead, focus on deep breathing and try to stay relaxed. If you notice jaw tension, take a break and stretch the muscles in your neck and jaw to relieve the pressure.
Not Taking Regular Breaks from Screen Time
The Impact of Extended Screen Time on Your Jaw
Long hours spent in front of screens—whether working on a computer, looking at a phone, or watching television—can contribute to TMJ pain. The posture often adopted while using screens, such as leaning forward or tensing the shoulders, can put additional strain on the jaw and neck. Clenching the jaw or engaging in subtle jaw movements while focusing on a screen can worsen TMJ discomfort.
How to Manage Screen Time for TMJ Pain Prevention
To avoid worsening TMJ pain from screen time, taking regular breaks throughout the day is essential. The 20-20-20 rule—take a break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds—helps reduce eye strain and encourages better posture. When working on a computer, ensure your screen is at eye level to avoid leaning forward. Take a short walk every hour to relieve jaw, neck, and shoulder tension.
Contact Sleep Better Columbus for TMJ Pain Relief Today
If you are struggling with TMJ pain, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Sleep Better Columbus to explore treatment options tailored to your needs. Our team can assist you in managing TMJ symptoms and improving your overall quality of life.
by Sleep Better Columbus | Feb 2, 2024 | TMJ/TMD
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) can affect anyone and isn’t limited to just adults. TMD and jaw pain are much more common in teenagers, particularly female teenagers. Adolescent TMD is often overlooked because teenagers and parents might easily dismiss a symptom like jaw pain on one side as a minor inconvenience that should go away in time.
However, if jaw pain in adolescents is left unchecked and untreated, the issue can escalate into TMD or another serious condition. When parents know how to recognize jaw pain and other common TMD symptoms early, they can ensure their adolescent child gets the help they need before the condition worsens.
What is TMD?
A temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a disorder of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), jaw, muscles, and nerves associated with chronic facial pain. TMD causes pain in the jaw joints, muscles, and ligaments controlling your jaw’s movement. Temporomandibular dysfunctions or disorders, also known as TMJ disorders, can greatly influence your daily life by impacting your ability to chew, yawn, or speak.
What Does Adolescent TMD Look Like?
Teenagers who have adolescent TMD can experience excruciating pain from something as simple as chewing gum or food or yawning. Teens with temporomandibular joint disorders often have tinnitus, dizzy spells, or acute migraines. They may frequently complain about their jaw locking or a spanning pain that moves downward from their face, head, or ear. The intensity of TMJ pain an adolescent experiences varies; some adolescents with TMD can function during these episodes while others cannot.
Common Symptoms Teens with TMD Experience
TMJ disorder symptoms vary widely. Adolescents with TMD might experience jaw pain, facial pain, shoulder pain, or neck pain that can range from mild to severe pain, with some teens experiencing chronic pain. Common signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in adolescents include:
- Pain in the jaw joint and/or chewing muscles (the most common symptom)
- Difficulty chewing, pain while chewing, or chewing that limits jaw movement
- Stiffness in your jaw
- Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints
- Aching pain in and around your ear
- Pain or tenderness of the jaw
- Aching facial pain
- Swelling of the side of the face
- Toothaches
- Pain that spreads to the face and/or neck
- Shoulder or neck pain
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, or dizziness
- Headaches and/or migraines
- Blurred vision
- Limited movement or locking of the temporomandibular joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
- Painful clicking sounds, grating sensations, or popping in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Changes in how upper and lower teeth align or fit together
Understanding the Complexities of TMD in Teenagers
As a parent, it’s concerning when your child struggles with headaches or pain. Unfortunately, symptoms like headaches, jaw pain, or neck pain are often mistakenly attributed to hormonal changes or growing pains. It’s important to consider that TMD might be responsible, particularly if your teen is experiencing episodes of jaw locking or complaining of one-sided pain.
Adolescents with TMD can experience severe chronic pain that is far worse than the average toothache. Chronic jaw pain in teenagers that is left untreated can lead to problems eating or talking, difficulty concentrating in school, or an inability to take part in enjoyable activities.
Female Adolescents at Highest Risk for TMD Pain
Temporomandibular joint disorder has been found in both adolescent boys and adolescent girls, but it is more prevalent in girls. A recent study conducted in Oslo, Norway, has found that female adolescents are more likely to experience TMD pain than male adolescents. Facial pain and TMD pain were higher in females, with the rate and severity being higher the older the female adolescent was. Female adolescents also suffered from more severe pain.
Treating TMD in Adolescents
If you think your teenager is struggling with TMD, It’s essential to seek professional advice. Treatment plans for adolescents with TMD often differ from those for adults and take into consideration the teenager’s growth and development. The earlier TMJ in teens is identified and addressed, the better. Treatment plans for TMJ in teenagers often differ from those for adults, taking into account the teenager’s growth and development.
The underlying cause of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and the severity of the pain are two factors taken into consideration when determining the TMJ treatment that is right for your child. Noninvasive options should be tried first. Treatment alternatives encompass home treatments, medication, self-care, and other non-invasive therapies. By adopting the appropriate strategy, you can effectively manage your adolescent’s TMD, enabling them to lead a normal, pain-free life.
The Best Approach to Jaw Pain Treatment for Teens with TMD
There are several treatment options for adolescents with TMD, and the best options for your child depend on the individual and the severity of the problem.
A TMD specialist will recommend various ways to counter the issue and help develop an evolving treatment plan to adopt preventive techniques as your child ages. Some of these treatment options include:
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Dental appliances
- Muscle Relaxers
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medication
- Relaxation training
- Stretching
- Surgery
Things That Can Worsen Adolescent TMD
When you’re aware of the habits that can worsen adolescent TMD, you can help your teenager avoid or prevent these habits so they can decrease pain and TMD flare-ups. Habits that can make temporomandibular disorders worse include:
- Nibbling on objects such as pens, pencils, or toothpicks, which is often associated with feelings of anxiety.
- Chewing ice, lollipops, or other hard candies
- Excessively chewing gum
- Grinding or clenching your teeth during the daytime
- Nail biting or lip chewing
- Poor posture (Strains the neck, shoulders, and jaw muscles.)
- Taking large bites of food (This overworks jaw muscles.)
- Sleeping on your stomach
- Utilizing your teeth for tasks like opening packages, removing tags from clothing, holding objects, or opening bottle caps.
What Should I Do If I Think My Teenager Has TMD?
If you think your teenager has a TMJ Disorder or they have been diagnosed with one, do not ignore the effects of it. Help your teen avoid things that can increase pain or worsen the condition. Consult a dentist or doctor who can help you and your teenager find ways to treat adolescent TMD. Thankfully, there are various strategies available to treat temporomandibular joint disorders, reduce discomfort, and alleviate symptoms.
Help for Adolescents with TMD
Suppose your adolescent is suffering from any TMD symptoms. In that case, an evaluation with a doctor who treats temporomandibular joint disorders can help determine the best treatment options for eliminating pain and ensuring your child’s bite is positioned correctly. Many parents are concerned about adolescent TMD and might have lots of questions about the condition and how it can affect their teenager.
Call Sleep Better Columbus at (614) 777-7350 to schedule an appointment and TMD evaluation for your adolescent today and get your questions and concerns answered.
by Sleep Better Columbus | Oct 9, 2023 | TMJ/TMD
TMJ is considered to be a progressive condition, and the four stages of TMJ are frequently used by doctors to provide a treatment guide for patients based on the severity of their temporomandibular joint damage.
What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a disorder of the jaw, temporomandibular joints, muscles, and nerves associated with chronic facial pain. TMJ can cause pain in the jaw joints and the ligaments and muscles that control the movement of your jaw. TMJ disorders, which are also known as temporomandibular dysfunctions (TMD), can impact your life in a significant way by affecting your ability to chew, speak easily, or yawn.
Stage One
Stage one of TMJ is disc displacement with reduction, sometimes identified as DDwR, and occurs when the disc is displaced in the closed-mouth position and reduces to normal relationship in the open-mouth position.
In stage one, mouth opening is limited and is often accompanied by the jaw moving to the side until a pop or click (reduction) happens and the mouth can be opened fully. In this stage, it’s not likely there will be any restriction in range of motion from the disc relocating when the mouth is opened.
Stage Two
Stage two of TMJ is disc displacement with reduction with intermittent locking. During this stage, the disc will be displaced in the closed-mouth position and will intermittently lock when in the open-mouth position when the disc doesn’t reduce.
Patients who are in stage two may experience episodes of limited mouth opening that can last for various lengths of time. Some people have described the feeling of hitting an obstruction when they attempt to open their mouth, and they may be able to move their jaw past the obstruction, or the obstruction may spontaneously disappear.
Stage Three
Stage three of TMJ is disc displacement without reduction, often referred to as DDwoR. Stage three occurs when clicking noises disappear but limited mouth opening remains. In this stage, the disc is displaced in closed-mouth position, and the disc does not reduce to normal in the open-mouth position. This is also referred to as closed lock.
During stage three, the jaw has a limited range of movement, and limited opening becomes chronic.
Stage Four
Stage four of TMJ, like stage three, is disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR). Similar to stage three, the disc is displaced in the closed-mouth position and does not reduce to normal in the open-mouthed position; however, stage four is also accompanied by perforation of the posterior attachment tissues or the disc.
What Causes TMJ to Worsen?
Dealing with the pain and other symptoms of TMJ can be challenging, but there are things you can control that worsen your TMJ and its symptoms. Knowing what these habits are can help you avoid them.
Some habits you can control that can worsen your TMJ include:
- Sleeping on your stomach
- Grinding or clenching your teeth during the daytime
- Chewing on pens, pencils, toothpicks, or other items (These habits are often related to anxiety.)
- Excessively chewing gum
- Taking large bites of food (This can overwork your jaw muscles.)
- Chewing ice, lollipops, or other hard candies
- Using your teeth as tools (e.g., opening packages, tearing tags off clothes, holding items, opening bottle caps)
- Stress and anxiety (When feeling stressed or anxious, you might increase tension in your jaw and facial muscles.)
Treating TMJ and TMD
Treatment options for TMJ and TMD depend on the stage of your temporomandibular joint disorder, the underlying cause of your TMJ, and the severity of your pain. When determining an appropriate treatment plan, noninvasive treatment options should be tried first.
Often, TMJ pain and discomfort is temporary and can be managed with self-care, home remedies, and/or other non-invasive and nonsurgical treatments.
Self-managed care options are things you can do for yourself. This includes identifying activities that cause TMD flare-ups and can worsen your TMJ. Understanding what causes flare-ups allows you to set goals to manage your condition and prevent TMJ issues. Learning all you can about your type of temporomandibular joint disorder can help.
Most home remedies deal with managing pain and include using over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Using icepacks can also help with pain and swelling. While TMJ home remedies may help reduce the pain, it’s important to remember that they are only temporary solutions and won’t always resolve the problems for long periods of time. If the pain and discomfort is persistent, then it’s best to contact an experienced healthcare professional who understands the complications of treating TMJ disorders.
Additional nonsurgical treatment options for TMJ disorders that do not involve medications include physical therapy and TMJ appliance therapy.
What is TMJ Appliance Therapy?
TMJ appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that doesn’t involve the use of any medications. Similar to mouthguards, TMJ appliances are worn in the mouth and fit over your upper or lower set of teeth; however, TMJ appliances are designed specifically to treat conditions related to the jaw joint.
TMD appliances called stabilization splints, also known as bite guards or bite plates, are prescribed, designed, fitted, and adjusted by TMJ specialists. These oral appliances realign the jaw, prevent contact between the teeth, and reduce jaw pressure and pain and are worn while you sleep and occasionally during the day.
TMJ appliance therapy will typically treat most TMD symptoms in a short period of time and can provide long-term stability for your temporomandibular joint. Using oral appliances can help avoid future serious complications. If TMD is left untreated or undertreated, it worsens as time passes and causes further joint damage and worsening symptoms as the condition progresses through the stages of TMJ.
If you think you might have a TMJ disorder, then reach out to the professionals at Sleep Better Columbus by calling 614-777-7350 or contact us online to book an appointment.
by Sleep Better Columbus | Jun 13, 2022 | TMJ/TMD
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain in the jaw joints and the muscles and ligaments controlling jaw movement. TMJ disorders, sometimes referred to as temporomandibular dysfunctions (TMD), can have a significant impact on your life by affecting your ability to speak easily, chew, or yawn. The TMD experts at Sleep Better Columbus are dedicated to improving and preventing TMJ/TMD symptoms.
Types of TMD (temporomandibular dysfunctions)
- Disorders of the chewing muscles, the most common form of TMD, can cause myofascial pain. Myofascial pain is pain or discomfort in the fascia (connective tissue covering the muscles) and muscles controlling jaw, neck, and shoulder function.
- Disorders of the jaw joints, including disc disorders and degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis.
- Headaches resulting from TMD and/or the associated pain.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder is hard to pinpoint, and the pain is usually from a combination of factors, which can be jaw injury, arthritis, or genetics.
TMJ causes may include:
- Bruxism (grinding or clenching the teeth)
- Malocclusion (improper alignment of your top and bottom teeth)
- Arthritis in the jaw joint
- Jaw injuries, such as a dislocated or broken jaw
- Stress
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorder symptoms vary widely. People may experience jaw pain, facial pain, and/or shoulder or neck pain. The pain a person feels from TMD can range from mild to severe with some people experiencing chronic pain. Common signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction include:
- Pain in the jaw joint and/or chewing muscles (the most common symptom)
- Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
- Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints
- Aching pain in and around your ear
- Pain or tenderness of the jaw
- Stiffness in your jaw
- Aching facial pain
- Swelling of the side of the face
- Toothaches
- Pain that spreads to the face and/or neck
- Shoulder or neck pain
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, or dizziness
- Headaches and/or migraines
- Blurred vision
- Limited movement or locking of the temporomandibular joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
- Painful clicking, grating, or popping in your jaw joint when you open or close your mouth
- Changes in how your upper and lower teeth align or fit together
TMJ disorders can cause a clicking sound, a grating sensation, or popping in your jaw joint when opening and closing your mouth or chewing that causes pain and/or limits jaw movement.
Sounds without pain in the temporomandibular joints are normal, happen often, and do not need treatment.
Managing and Preventing TMJ/TMD Flare-ups
Any number of things can create issues with your TMJ disorder, but you can take steps to prevent flare-ups and minimize pain and discomfort if you do have a TMD flare-up.
The first preventive measure you can take is recognizing any activities that might cause a flare-up or increase your pain or discomfort. Once you’ve identified these activities, you can work on avoiding them or taking steps to prevent them from occurring. For example, if you have sleep bruxism (grinding or clenching your teeth at night while sleeping), you can wear a mouth guard at night. If you experience pain and discomfort after eating hard, difficult-to-chew foods like taffy, gummy candies, or jerky, avoid eating these foods as much as possible.
Things That Make TMJ Disorders Worse
While you might not be able to control the factors that cause TMJ disorders, you can control things that can make your TMD, and its symptoms, worse. Being aware of these habits can help when it comes to avoiding or preventing TMJ/TMD symptoms so you can decrease pain and TMJ disorder flare-ups.
Habits that can make temporomandibular disorders worse include:
- Chewing on pens, pencils, toothpicks, or other items (These habits are often related to anxiety.)
- Chewing ice, lollipops, or other hard candies
- Excessively chewing gum
- Grinding or clenching your teeth during the daytime
- Taking large bites of food (This overworks jaw muscles.)
- Sleeping on your stomach
- Using your teeth as tools (e.g., opening packages, tearing tags off clothes, holding items, opening bottle caps)
Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders
For many people, the pain and discomfort from TMJ disorders is temporary and can be relieved with home remedies, self-managed care, and/or other nonsurgical treatments.
Most home remedies deal with managing pain. Typical home remedies include using ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen. While home remedies may help reduce the pain, they are temporary solutions and won’t always resolve the problems for long periods of time.
Sedatives, muscle relaxers, and pain relievers can be used to help treat TMJ disorders. Sedatives can help you sleep more peacefully at night. Muscle relaxers will help relax the muscles in the area. Muscle relaxers are often paired with pain relievers that help with the immediate pain.
Self-managed care options are all the activities you can do yourself. These activities can include learning everything you can about your type of temporomandibular joint disorder, identifying activities that cause TMD flare-ups, setting specific goals for managing your condition, and learning meditation and relaxation techniques to reduce and/or eliminate stress that might be contributing to TMJ pain or lead to habits that cause TMJ pain (e.g., clenching or grinding teeth, chewing on non-food items).
Other Options for Preventing TMJ/TMD Pain
Additional nonsurgical treatment options for TMJ disorders that do not involve medications include using a bite guard while you sleep or occasionally during the day, wearing a dental splint or mouth guard to realign the jaw, or physical therapy options. Physical therapy for temporomandibular dysfunctions typically includes stretches and exercises to strengthen the jaw along with using ice and moist heat.
If you have a severe case, your dentist or doctor may suggest other more aggressive treatment options. Corticosteroid injections directly into the joint can be helpful. Arthrocentesis, a medical procedure during which the jaw joint is washed out with sterile fluid to rinse away any debris, may also be helpful. If these and other nonsurgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be suggested as a last resort. Surgical options are generally only used when there is something structurally wrong with the joint of a patient with a TMJ disorder.
What to Do If You Think You Have a TMJ Disorder
If you think you have a TMJ Disorder or have been diagnosed with one, do not ignore the effects of it. Take steps to avoid things that can increase pain or worsen the condition. Consult a dentist or doctor who can help you find ways to treat the condition. Fortunately, there are multiple things a person can do to manage temporomandibular joint disorders, decrease pain, and eliminate symptoms.
Learn how the TMD experts at Sleep Better Columbus can help you manage and treat your TMJ/TMD while preventing TMJ/TMD pain and symptoms. Schedule your consultation today online or call 614-777-7350.
by Sleep Better Columbus | Apr 11, 2022 | TMJ/TMD
The second-most common cause of chronic headaches is temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which is sometimes called TMJ dysfunction. These TMD headaches can greatly diminish quality of life. Thankfully, non-invasive treatment options can reduce or eliminate your chronic TMD headache.
What is a Temporomandibular Disorder?
A temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a disorder of the temporomandibular joints, jaw, muscles, and nerves associated with chronic facial pain. TMD causes pain in the jaw joints and the muscles and ligaments controlling your jaw’s movement. Temporomandibular dysfunctions or disorders (TMD), can have a significant impact on your life by affecting your ability to chew, yawn, or speak easily.
Why Do Temporomandibular Disorders Cause Headaches?
Temporomandibular disorders cause headaches because the proximity of the jaw to the head means pain easily travels upward. The many nerves located near the temporomandibular joint contribute to the aches becoming more intense. The two primary reasons for a TMD headache are jaw tension and a misaligned bite.
Jaw tension is the most common cause of a temporomandibular disorder headache. Bruxism, the act of clenching your teeth, tires the muscles and joints surrounding the teeth, which causes joint pain and can wear down the teeth. Pain from the jaw travels up to the temples and can range from mild to severe. Grinding your teeth can also cause cramping of the jaw which can result in pulsating headaches that feel like migraines.
A misaligned bite puts strain on your jaw and is another common reason for a TMD headache. Trying to keep the jaw in proper positioning stresses and tires the tissues, including the facial muscles, surrounding the temporomandibular joint, and when this occurs, it causes a headache.
What are the Symptoms of a TMD Headache?
A TMD headache is pain in the head, face, and cheek caused by a temporomandibular joint disorder. The TMJ disorder causes pain in the temporomandibular joint, and that pain spreads upward to other parts of your head.
Frequent headaches can be symptomatic of TMJ issues. Common symptoms of TMD headaches may also include:
- achiness in your neck and/or shoulders
- atypical pain in your cheek muscles
- challenges with swallowing
- clicking or popping sounds when moving your jaw
- difficulty or pain when chewing food (more severe head pain may occur when chewing)
- inability to open your mouth fully
- migraine headaches
- pain over your eyes, in the ear area, or in the temples
- sore TMJ (jaw) hinges
- sensitive teeth, but no obvious dental problems
- swollen face
- tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
How is Temporomandibular Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Dentists, physiotherapists, or doctors can diagnose temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) in a dental checkup or physical examination. They will assess your jaw’s range of motion when you open and close your mouth, feel the areas surrounding your temporomandibular (jaw) joints while you open and close your mouth, and press on your jaw and certain areas of your face to find areas of tenderness, pain, or discomfort.
They might also use imaging tests for a closer look at your temporomandibular joints and the structures surrounding them. The imaging tests might include a panoramic X-ray to assess your jaw and teeth, a CT (computed tomography) scan to get a more detailed view, and an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to assess the soft tissues that surround your temporomandibular joints.
Treating Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and TMD Headaches
The underlying cause of your temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and the severity of your pain are two factors that are taken into consideration when determining the TMJ treatment that is right for you. Noninvasive options should be tried first. Treatment options can include home remedies, medications, self-managed care, and/or other nonsurgical treatments.
Home Remedies and Medications
Home remedies include eating soft foods, applying heat or cold packs to the affected area, and taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen. Home remedies may help reduce the pain, but they are temporary solutions that won’t always resolve the problems long-term.
Sedatives and muscle relaxers can also help treat TMJ disorders. Sedatives can help you sleep more peacefully at night. Muscle relaxers relax the muscles in the area and are often paired with pain relievers that help with immediate pain.
Self-managed Care
Self-managed care treatment options include any activities you can do yourself. These activities might be learning all that you can about your type of temporomandibular joint disorder, identifying any activities that can contribute to TMD flare-ups, setting specific goals for managing your TMD, and learning relaxation techniques or meditation to reduce and/or eliminate any stress that could contribute to TMJ pain or lead to habits that cause TMJ pain (e.g., chewing on non-food items, clenching teeth, grinding teeth).
Other Nonsurgical Treatments for your TMD Headache and TMJ Pain
Additional nonsurgical treatment options like oral appliances and physical therapy do not involve medications. Oral appliances include bite guards that can be worn while you sleep or occasionally during the day, and wearing a dental splint or mouth guard to realign the jaw. Physical therapy for Aggressive Treatment Options for Severe TMD
For severe TMD, your dentist or doctor may suggest other more aggressive treatment options. Corticosteroid injections directly into the joint are often helpful. Arthrocentesis, a medical procedure during which the jaw joint is washed out with sterile fluid to rinse away any debris, may also provide relief. If these and other nonsurgical treatments are not effective, a surgical option may be suggested as a last resort. Surgical options are generally only used when there is something structurally wrong with the jaw joint of a patient who has a temporomandibular disorder.
To learn more about using oral appliances to treat TMJ and reduce or eliminate your TMD headaches, call Sleep Better Columbus at 614-777-7350 or contact us online to speak with a TMJ specialist.
