Things That Make TMJ Worse

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly known as TMJ, can be a debilitating condition that affects the jaw, causing discomfort and pain. For those who suffer from TMJ, understanding the factors that can exacerbate the condition is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. In this blog, we’ll explore some common habits and lifestyle choices that could be making your TMJ worse and provide tips on how to alleviate the discomfort.

Poor Posture

Believe it or not, the way you hold your body can significantly affect your jaw health. Poor posture, especially when sitting for extended periods, can strain your neck and jaw muscles, worsening TMJ symptoms. Here are some posture-related factors to be mindful of:

• Slouching while sitting can lead to misalignment of the spine and jaw.
• Holding your phone between your ear and shoulder can increase tension in the jaw area.
• Working at a computer without ergonomic support can strain the neck and jaw muscles.

To improve posture, consider ergonomic office setups, use supportive chairs, and take regular breaks to stretch and adjust your body alignment.

Stress and Teeth Grinding

Stress is a major contributor to TMJ discomfort, often leading to teeth grinding (bruxism), which can exacerbate jaw pain. When stressed, people may clench their jaw unconsciously, increasing pressure on the TMJ. To mitigate stress-related TMJ symptoms, consider the following:

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
• Use a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding.
• Engage in regular physical activity to reduce overall stress levels.

Dietary Choices

Your diet can also play a role in TMJ discomfort. Certain foods require excessive chewing, which can strain the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ symptoms. To help manage your condition, consider these dietary adjustments:

• Avoid hard and chewy foods like nuts, bagels, and gum.
• Opt for softer foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
• Cut food into smaller pieces to reduce the effort required for chewing.

Sleep Habits

The way you sleep can impact your TMJ symptoms. Poor sleep posture can lead to increased tension in the jaw and neck area, exacerbating TMJ pain. Consider these sleep habit adjustments:

• Try sleeping on your back to avoid putting pressure on your jaw.
• Use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck aligned with your spine.
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach, which can misalign your neck and jaw.

Why Early Intervention Matters

TMJ symptoms often start subtly and worsen over time if left unaddressed. Ignoring jaw pain or muscle tension can lead to chronic discomfort, limited jaw movement, and even long-term joint damage. That’s why early intervention is key. By identifying your triggers and making targeted changes—like those outlined above—you can prevent your symptoms from escalating. At Tysons Dental Esthetics in Falls Church, Dr. Berrada takes a comprehensive approach to TMJ care, helping you catch issues early and create a treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle and needs.

Take Control of Your TMJ in Falls Church, VA

If you're struggling with TMJ pain and are looking for relief, it's time to take action. At Tysons Dental Esthetics, Dr. Sanae Berrada is dedicated to helping patients in Falls Church, VA, find effective solutions for TMJ discomfort. Don’t let TMJ control your life—reach out to us today at (703) 821-8111 to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards a pain-free life.