Sometimes, even patients with the prettiest, healthiest smiles suffer from facial pain and discomfort. Due to stress, genetics, or facial trauma, people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) usually have trouble leading a comfortable life. If you’re at home and wondering what to do to reduce your TMJ pain in Aventura, oral experts are here to tell you what habits you should lose once and for all.
What to Avoid to Not Feel TMJ Pain
Nail Biting
Some people can’t help but bite their nails when they’re feeling anxious or scared. However, aside from being terrible for your stomach, chewing on your nails forces your teeth to exert more pressure than usual, damaging your temporomandibular joint and exacerbating any pain you might be feeling. Stay away from your nails, and don’t put objects that aren’t food, such as pens and pencils, inside your mouth.
Teeth Grinding
Bruxism is one of the primary causes of TMJ disorder and pain. People who suffer from teeth grinding clench their upper and lower jaw together while stressed or asleep, which results in their facial joints experiencing pain like no other. Talk to an oral professional and discuss ways to treat your bruxism, as dealing with this issue can significantly reduce your daily TMJ discomfort.
Gum Chewing
Gum might be a great tool to quit smoking and an excellent stress reliever before an exam or interview, but it does more harm than good to patients with TMJ disorder. Gum requires repetitive chewing and forces your facial joints to move constantly. If you’re an avid gum chewer, you’ll instantly notice a difference if you reduce your gum intake or replace gum with other soft foods. You’ll also be doing your teeth a favor by lowering your chances of getting cavities.
If You Need TMJ Surgery in Aventura, We Can Help You
You can significantly reduce your TMJ pain by changing daily habits, such as biting your nails, grinding your teeth, and chewing gum. If you need surgery to get rid of your TMJ disorder once and for all, you can schedule a visit with our team!
