10 Things That Make TMJ Disorder Worse & Treatment Options

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) helps you talk, chew food, and yawn. Disorders of this joint can be frustrating as it can disrupt daily activities, causing pain and discomfort in the face, jaw, and head. 

Things that can make temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder worse include stress, biting habits, teeth grinding, and certain foods.

Thankfully, TMJ disorder (TMD) symptoms can be alleviated through treatment options like night guards, physical therapy, medications, and even lifestyle changes. 

Comfortably opening and closing your mouth is essential for your oral health, so contact your dentist if you have symptoms of TMJ disorder.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It’s located in front of the ears on either side of the head and connects the jaw to the skull. 

The muscles, ligaments, and joints in this body area enable people to talk, yawn, chew, and swallow.

TMJ Disorder (TMD) Symptoms

If you experience symptoms like the following, contact your dentist:

• A clicking or popping noise when you open your mouth
• Difficulty opening & closing your mouth
• Discomfort in the ear, jaw, or temple area
• Headaches & neck pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

TMJ Disorder (TMD) Causes

TMJ disorder can be caused by multiple factors, including:

• Injuries to the jaw
• Tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Arthritis
• Head & neck muscle tension
• Stress
• Improperly fit dentures
• Biting habits
• Jaw joint erosion
• Structural issues or joint hypermobility

What Makes TMJ Disorder Worse

There may be seemingly mundane daily habits that can make the symptoms of TMJ disorder worse.

1. Biting Habits 

Habits such as biting your fingernails or chewing the end of a pencil can contribute to TMJ disorder. 

You may not notice when you absent-mindedly engage in these parafunctional activities. However, try to be aware of them and stop if you can. For example, try using bad-tasting nail polish to avoid biting your fingernails.

2. Teeth Grinding 

Grinding your teeth, known as bruxism, can lead to severe jaw discomfort. Sometimes, people don’t realize they have the habit because they grind their teeth in their sleep. Symptoms like sensitivity to hot or cold, headaches, jaw aches, and earaches may be signs of bruxism.

3. Improper Use of Teeth 

Many of us have used our teeth to tear apart bags or open containers. Unfortunately, using your teeth as tools can damage your teeth and supporting tissues—including the jaw joints.

Invest in household tools like knife sharpeners or jar openers if you rely on your teeth frequently. Your teeth—and jaw—will thank you in the long run.

4. Chewing Gum 

Many of us enjoy chewing gum to freshen our breath or relieve stress. Unfortunately, chewing gum can overwork the jaw and make TMJ disorder symptoms worse. If you’re craving something sweet, consider something softer, like mint ice cream.

5. Certain Foods (Including Ice) 

Similarly, chewing ice or anything hard can make TMJ disorder symptoms worse. Foods to avoid include raw vegetables, apples, jerky, and nuts. Chewing ice cubes can also damage your teeth, veneers, crowns, and fillings.

6. Stress & Tension 

Research suggests that stressors and pain perception are factors that impact when TMJ disorder starts and how long symptoms can last. 

Stress can also lead to muscle tension in the jaw area. If you experience stress and anxiety, explore meditation and mindfulness techniques. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a healthcare provider.

7. Big Bites 

Taking large bites of food may be tempting when you’re enjoying a particularly delicious meal, but this can also exacerbate TMJ disorder symptoms by overworking your jaw. Consider cutting up large servings of food and avoid chewier foods like steak, caramel, bagels, or celery.

8. Sleep Position 

Sleeping on your belly may also worsen symptoms of TMJ. Resting your chin on your hands or another surface can put inappropriate pressure on your jaw. If you habitually sleep on your belly, you can train yourself to sleep on your back.

9. Poor Posture 

Slouching can cause changes in how your jaws work. Your jaw is comfortably positioned when you’re upright with your head above your cervical spine. Physical therapy can help individuals change their posture into a healthier form.

10. Improper Therapeutic Device Use 

If you’ve been prescribed a device like a mouthguard, wearing it improperly or avoiding it altogether may worsen your symptoms. 

If wearing these devices is challenging or unduly uncomfortable, talk to your dentist about alternatives. Improperly fit dentures can also lead to TMJ disorder.

How to Treat TMJ Disorder (TMD)

TMJ disorder can be frustrating, but it can be managed effectively. 

Managing TMJ Disorder at Home

You can start at home with a few lifestyle changes, including:

• Using cold or warm compresses to help relieve pain
• Place a cold or warm cloth next to your jaw & try gently massaging the muscles
• Practicing jaw relaxation to help ease tension
• When your jaw is relaxed, there should be a small amount of space between your teeth & lips
• Eating soft & smaller foods to avoid overworking your jaw
• Avoid hard & chewy foods that can strain your jaw

Professional Treatment for TMJ Disorder

There are also professional interventions for TMJ disorder, including:

• Medications,such as pain relief medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, & muscle relaxers, can help relieve symptoms

• Orthodontic & dental devices, like a custom-fitted mouthguard, can hold your jaw in place or decrease nighttime teeth grinding

• Physical therapy, involving exercises, can stretch or strengthen the jaw muscles or improve posture to help relieve pressure

• Surgeries, like arthrocentesis, TMJ arthroscopy, & open-joint surgery, are available when less invasive therapies are ineffective

TMJ Disorder Treatment Options at Embrace Dental Care

Think about how often you use your jaw—for talking, eating, and so much more. When you experience TMJ disorder, it can significantly impact how you live.

Your jaw health plays a crucial role in your overall oral health. Opening your jaw without discomfort is essential for dental care, including brushing, flossing, and even routine exams.

If you need TMJ disorder treatment, contact Embrace Dental Care in Calgary. We’re dedicated to building relationships of trust and care with our patients. We’ll work with you to find a treatment plan that fits your needs. 

Book an appointment at Embrace Dental Care today.