TMJ Disorder Tips and Tricks: Don’t Stress the Small Stuff!

Did you know that up to 12% of Americans suffer from TMJ?  This disorder affects the joints that control your jaw and can be incredibly debilitating and painful.   TMJ is usually diagnosed by a dentist using medical imaging. It can be treated with a custom mouthguard.

We’ve found our patients get the best results from TMJ therapies when they also work to reduce their stress levels.  Why? Because most people tense up and clench their jaws when they’re stressed out.  For your average person, this is no big deal, but if you’re prone to TMJ disorders, it can do lasting damage.

But how can you relieve stress to protect a jaw?  Here are some methods that work for our team.  Try them out and see if any work for you!  

Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing is the act of going to walk, or sit, somewhere outside in nature.  Natural light and beautiful surroundings are a great way to relieve stress. We all get busy, and days are getting shorter, so make time in nature a priority to relieve stress.

Yoga

Yoga is a great exercise and also can teach you healthy, stress-relieving breathing patterns.  Sign up for a class so that you’re motivated to go. For more fun, pick a time when you can make it a get-together with friends, too.

Tea and Journaling

Stress gets worse when you push it down inside.  Instead, make a nice cup of tea and journal your feelings.  Working through why you’re stressed can help you deal with stress more effectively.

Make important life changes

Stress is a signal that we need to make changes in our lives. If you’re perpetually stressed, consider switching jobs, cutting back on volunteer commitments, or making more time for leisure.  Even if the process of changing causes some immediate stress, it might be worth it to free yourself from stress long term.

When stress relief doesn’t help

If stress relief isn’t helping your TMJ pain, it’s time to see your dentist. Oral appliances can take the pressure off your joints, and medications like muscle relaxers or low-dose antidepressants can help relieve some of the strain on the muscles and tendons.  TMJ disorders can progress over time and permanently damage the joint, so if you have pain, make an appointment.

By TMJ & Sleep Center of Metropolitan NJ

February 21, 2024