Have you noticed that your jaw feels particularly stiff and achy when you wake up, or do you notice a clicking sound when you open your mouth? If so, you may have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Unfortunately, if you’re a habitual gum-chewer, this could be the culprit behind your condition. Keep reading to learn more about why it happens, and how your dentist can help resolve the issue!
What Is a TMJ Disorder?
Your TMJ is what connects your jawbone to your skull on either side of your face. It works with different muscles and ligaments that allow you to move your mandible up and down, side to side, and forward and back. When the joint is overworked or out of alignment, it can become inflamed which can cause several symptoms including:
- Sore or locked jaw
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Limited mouth movements
When this occurs, it’s known as a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.
What Caused My TMD?
Your dentist can work with you to determine the cause, but in many cases, it’s due to overuse from regularly chewing gum. In a study that examined the relationship between this habit and TMD, researchers established that longer durations of chewing gum increased the prevalence of TMD symptoms. Not only that but it has also been associated with chronic migraines in children and teens because it tightens facial muscles.
In other instances, bruxism or teeth-grinding triggers the initial inflammation but chewing gum regularly can exacerbate it.
How Can I Address My TMD Discomfort?
If you’re having regular jaw or headaches, try switching to mints for a while and see if you notice a change. Giving your mouth a break from the constant chewing motion allows your muscles to relax. To alleviate pain, you might try applying a warm compress to the side of your face that’s troubling you. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can also provide some much-needed relief. These solutions might just do the trick and give your joints enough of a break to heal.
If your situation is more troublesome and you can’t even open your mouth, for example, then at-home remedies likely aren’t going to be enough and it’s time to call your dentist. They can provide you with solutions like a customized splint to help shift your jaw into its ideal alignment and physical therapy to rehabilitate your joint.
By ending your chronic gum-chewing habit, your TMD could become a distant memory!
About the Author
Dr. Katherine Parét believes that your oral health is connected to your overall well-being and strives to help patients improve both. She graduated from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2013 and has since completed specialized training in a wide range of services including TMD therapies. She takes a conservative approach to avoid expensive surgeries or invasive procedures whenever possible. If you’re interested in a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (207) 200-4106.