When you see an orthodontist or dentist for TMJ treatment, they will recommend that you immediately take steps to relieve overworking of the jaw and jaw joint, as well as surrounding muscles and ligaments. Before anyone can properly diagnosis the particular causes of your TMJ problem, they first have to reduce soft tissue swelling so they can see how the jaw functions when it is not swollen and the muscles aren't having spasms from being overstrained.
You can help relieve many of your own TMJ symptoms and prepare for TMJ therapy treatments of all kinds by avoiding activities and habits that further stress your jaw joints.
Habits and Behaviors to Avoid:
- Chewing gum or hard candy
- Talking on the telephone in a "hands free" mode, with the receiver braced between your neck and shoulder. Instead, buy a "hands free" ear piece.
- Eating bagels, apples, large sandwiches, hard pretzels, raw vegetables, or other hard-to-chew foods, as well as those that require you to open your mouth too widely.
- Opening your mouth wide to yawn.
- Lengthy dental visits. Schedule short visits to the dentist so you don't have to keep your jaw open wide for long periods of time.
- Clenching or gritting the teeth. Whenever you are involved in stressful situations, such as driving, working, or playing sports, pay particular attention to the teeth and tongue position. Keep your teeth a little apart, and your tongue gently between the teeth, as it is when you pronounce the letter "N." This should be the normal position of your mouth at rest.
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