What to Avoid Doing If You Have TMJ Symptoms 

Have you been experiencing aches and pains in your jaw on one or both sides? Or have you been dealing with frequent migraines or headaches? These kinds of symptoms may mean you have TMJ — or a problem with your temporomandibular joint. Our orthodontist in Parrish and Bradenton, FL, offers some guidance on what habits you should avoid doing, so your TMJ disorder doesn’t get worse.

Teeth Grinding

Do you tend to grind your teeth or clench your jaw during the day or while sleeping? This strains your jaw joints more, causing TMJ symptoms to worsen.

Slouching

Did you know that poor posture can make TMJ more severe? Slouching instead of standing or sitting up straight puts more strain on the muscles in your jaw, face, shoulders, and neck.

Using Teeth as Tools

Do you rip open bags with your teeth? Using your teeth like tools to open or tear containers stresses your jaw joints and muscles, resulting in more pain and discomfort.

Chewing or Biting Non-Food Objects

Do you have a habit of chewing on ice or other objects that aren’t food, like pens? Biting or chewing on these items isn’t what your teeth and jaws are designed for, so it can make TMJ worse.

Eating in Large Bites

Taking huge bites of food gives your jaw muscles too much of a workout, making them stiff and sore.

Visit Us for TMJ Treatment!

Are you looking for some relief from symptoms of TMJ? At Orthodontic Specialists, our orthodontist can provide TMJ treatment in Bradenton and Parrish, FL, to help ease an achy jaw, migraines, and other signs of these jaw joint disorders. We can also give you advice on what not to do to avoid making your symptoms worse.