Temporomandibular joint disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, an area that serves as an attachment between the jaw and the skull. Headaches, lock jaw, ear pain and difficulty in chewing are common symptoms of this condition.

This condition is common in older individuals due to the stresses caused by a lifetime of daily wear and tear. However, it may affect younger individuals as well. Here are a few dental tips to avoid TMJ Syndrome.

Slice Food into Smaller Portions. It is not necessary to avoid tough foods altogether. If you enjoy eating crunchy apples and carrots, you may choose to cut them into thin slivers. This will lessen the workload of your jaws and teeth. It would be wise to remove corn kernels from the cob as well, as large bites can cause significant stress to one’s TMJ.

Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools. Teeth go through high levels of stress daily. Therefore, any excess amount of stress should be considered a form of abuse. Please avoid chewing your nails, biting into hard candy or using your teeth to open bottles. These are one of the usual ways people abuse their dentition and their jaws.

Make Sure Fillings Aren’t Over-filled. Dental fillings are necessary to prevent further tooth degradation. An inexperienced dentist may overfill the area, causing it to become uneven and this will change the bite of the patient. If the resting position of the jaw is uneven, it may lead to jaw stress over time.

Avoid Night Grinding. Bruxism is a condition where a person gnashes his or her teeth at night due to stress. This should be put to a stop early on. A mouthguard will be necessary to cushion the stress to the teeth and jaw. However, therapy and medication should also be considered to combat the true cause of the problem.

If you notice early symptoms of TMJ disorder, it would be wise to schedule a visit with a seasoned expert as soon as possible. Visit Stoner Periodontic Specialists, a leading dental care practice, to find out how to prevent and treat this condition.