For many individuals, chewing a piece of gum is a mindless activity. For others, it’s a way to curb an addiction to tobacco products or food. Unfortunately, if practiced too frequently, it can begin to take a toll on one’s jaw, resulting in chronic pain. If you already exhibit the symptoms associated with TMJ, keep reading to find out whether your favorite gum can be at fault for your increased discomfort.
What Makes Chewing Gum Problematic?
While it helps to freshen breath and stimulate the production of saliva, which neutralizes harmful acids inside the mouth, chewing gum can be problematic if you have TMJ, and here’s why.
Each time you chew, you activate your jaw joints. In a normal situation, they would move fluidly without issues; however, when they are inflamed or damaged for any reason, the continuous motion of chewing a piece of gum only exacerbates the pain of these overworked joints.
Clicking, popping, and even locking can occur, causing you to wince each time you try to open your mouth. The effects can be devastating if you choose to neglect professional treatment.
Also, if your TMJ causes headaches to form, which are common because of the connection to the skull, excessive chewing will lead to longer-lasting pain throughout the head and neck.
Are There Ways to Combat TMJ?
Yes, many different treatment options can be recommended when it comes to addressing chronic jaw pain. Not only will you need to stop chewing gum, but you’ll also want to use warm compresses to reduce any pain. It’s also helpful to take anti-inflammatory medication and eat softer foods for a while (staying away from hard, crunchy, or chewy foods). Performing regular stretches and muscle massages can also be effective in reducing the symptoms associated with TMJ.
These at-home remedies can be beneficial in reducing tension and pressure placed on your jaw joints.
Professional treatment might include wearing a custom-made occlusal splint at night while you are asleep, especially if you are prone to grinding your teeth.
Living with TMJ doesn’t have to be your reality. By making various lifestyle changes and putting aside the chewing gum, you can embrace a fully functional, pain-free smile.
About the Practice
Indy Dental Group wants all patients to enjoy a fully functional, healthy smile. This doesn’t just include teeth and gums but also the jaw. When inflammation or damage impacts the temporomandibular joints, intense pain and limited mobility can occur. This is why our team of esteemed dentists offers TMJ treatment for those in need. Using occlusal splints to address symptoms and generate a better night’s sleep, we encourage you to contact us at (317) 846-6125 to find out what we can do to help you achieve relief from chronic jaw pain.