Could Your Daily Habits Be Worsening TMJ Symptoms?

TMJ disorders (TMD) can significantly impact your quality of life, and in many cases, your daily habits may unknowingly be making things worse. TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, which is located on both sides of your jaw and is responsible for helping you chew, speak, and move your jaw. Dysfunction in this joint can lead to various symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and even neck discomfort.

Common Daily Habits That Could Worsen TMJ Symptoms

Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism). Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is one of the most common causes of TMJ disorders. Stress often triggers clenching and grinding, especially at night. Studies show that bruxism affects between 15.5% of men and 20.2% of women. Nightguards, which are custom-made devices, can help reduce the pressure on your teeth and prevent further damage.
Poor Posture. Slouching or hunching over your desk may put strain on the muscles connected to your jaw, exacerbating TMJ symptoms. Improving your posture by keeping your head aligned with your spine may reduce tension in the jaw muscles.
Overworking Your Jaw. Constantly chewing gum or hard foods puts stress on your jaw, causing or worsening TMJ symptoms. Limiting these activities and opting for softer foods can reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and joints.
Stress. Stress is a significant contributor to TMJ disorders. It leads to muscle tension, especially in the jaw, which can worsen pain and discomfort. Incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or yoga into your daily routine can ease TMJ symptoms.

Professional TMJ Treatment Options

At Dr. Marc Lazare’s office, patients receive personalized treatment plans that include everything from custom nightguards to infrared light TMJ therapy. If you're experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, lockjaw, or headaches, Dr. Lazare can diagnose TMJ disorder through a thorough examination, including x-rays if necessary.

For TMJ treatment in New York City, Dr. Lazare offers various approaches to relieve pain and restore proper jaw function. Common treatments include:

Nightguards: Designed to prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep.
Invisalign: Misaligned bites can exacerbate TMJ, and Invisalign can correct these issues over time.
In-Office Therapy: Infrared light therapy, muscle relaxants, or selective filing of teeth to address bite misalignment.

A close-up of a man placing a custom-fitted night guard in his mouth, used to prevent teeth grinding and manage TMJ disorder symptoms.

For more information about TMJ treatment, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lazare, contact us online or call 332-334-8290.

Preventing TMJ Symptoms at Home

Use a hot or cold compress to reduce muscle tension.
Limit hard or chewy foods to avoid overworking the jaw.
Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation or yoga to relax the jaw muscles.
Improve posture to avoid straining your neck and jaw.

By incorporating small changes in your daily routine, such as wearing a nightguard or reducing stress, you can significantly reduce the impact of TMJ on your life.