The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the entire body. That being said, there is a lot that can go wrong in this area. When this happens, it is called temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. If you are constantly experiencing morning headaches, lockjaw, jaw pain, earaches, or jaw clicking, you may have TMD. There are several things you can do to prevent your TMD from worsening. Here’s how refraining from chewing gum can make a difference.
How Does Chewing Gum Worsen TMD?
Sometimes, dentists recommend chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production – keeping your mouth clean and your breath fresh between brushes. However, if you have TMD, dentists typically advise against chewing gum. The repetitive movements associated with gum chewing can increase discomfort and inflammation, making it more challenging to open or close the mouth. The mouth can even become stuck in an opened or closed position. Constant chewing can also tighten the facial muscles, increasing your risk of headaches and migraines.
Is It Okay to Chew Gum in Moderation?
Chewing gum can contribute to and aggravate TMD, but dental professionals tend to agree that it is okay to chew gum in moderation. However, if you are having TMJ flareups, it’s a good idea to take a break from chewing gum for multiple days to give the joints and muscles time to rest. Sticking to softer foods during flareups can also help to relax the facial muscles and give the jaw a chance to recover.
How Can TMD Be Addressed?
If you think that you might have TMJ disorder, you should reach out to a TMJ/TMD dentist to get the treatment you need. There are various treatment options out there to help bring patients relief. Here are some of the most common.
- Splint Therapy: This is a customized mouthguard that is worn throughout the night to keep the jaw into proper alignment. This helps to gradually create long-term, stable changes to the jaw, providing lasting relief.
- Neuromuscular Approach: Sometimes, TMD has underlying causes elsewhere in the body. That’s why it’s important that your dentist looks at the jaw, head, and neck as one system.
- Orthodontic/Restorative Treatment: In some cases, the TMJs aren’t functioning properly due to uneven pressure in the mouth. In this case, orthodontic and restorative treatment can be used to bring equilibrium to the jaw joints.
Ultimately, if you have TMD, it’s a good idea to refrain from chewing gum. This way, you can give your TMJs some relief!
About the Author
Dr. Mitch Conditt earned his dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has been working in the field for four decades. Since then, he has been mentored by world renowned experts in the field of sleep disordered breathing and TMJ disorders. Currently, he is a diplomate of the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine and a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. To learn more about TMJ treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (817) 527-8500.