Can temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder (TMJ) be prevented?
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Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:Taking steps to lower your stress level may help you avoid the discomfort of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. No one is sure what causes this condition, which produces pain in the jaw and facial muscles, and headaches, among other symptoms. However, doctors believe that living with chronic emotional stress makes a person more likely to develop TMJ. If you feel tense and anxious much of the time, try to find a way to relax. Some good relaxation techniques include meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and exercise.
Taking steps to lower your stress level may help you avoid the discomfort of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. No one is sure what causes this condition, which produces pain in the jaw and facial muscles, and headaches, among other... More -
The muscles affected by TMJ are the muscles used to chew, swallow, and communicate. For some people, the cause of TMJ is strain on this group of muscles. To prevent TMJ, take steps not to strain this muscle group. If you are inclined to tense your jaw when stressed, use relaxation techniques to cope and modify your behavior so that you don't clench your jaw or grind your teeth. Eating softer foods, not chewing gum, and being mindful not to open your jaw too widely all should help in keeping these muscles and joints healthy.
The muscles affected by TMJ are the muscles used to chew, swallow, and communicate. For some people, the cause of TMJ is strain on this group of muscles. To prevent TMJ, take steps not to strain this muscle group. If you are inclined to tense your... More -
Because the cause of many temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders remains unknown, there is no known method of prevention.
However, because some types of TMJ disorders are associated with trauma to the jaw, individuals should take steps to reduce their risk of injuries. In order to reduce the risk of injury, individuals should wear protective gear when participating in contact sports, such as hockey or football. Individuals who ride motorcycles should wear helmets that have face shields.
Individuals are encouraged to make lifestyle changes to avoid behaviors that may contribute to the development of TMJ disorders. Many behaviors, including frequently clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth (which may occur during sleep), poor posture that puts strain on the muscles and bones near the jaw, or other habits that overwork the jaw muscles (e.g. constantly chewing gum), may contribute to the development of TMJ disorders and should be avoided. Wearing a night guard during sleep may help protect the teeth from become worn down and damaged when an individual grinds his/her teeth. Night guards are available at local drug stores.
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Because the cause of many temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders remains unknown, there is no known method of prevention. However, because some types of TMJ disorders are associated with trauma to the jaw, individuals should take steps to reduce... More -
Dr. John Van der Werff answered:Other than trauma, there is usually no one thing that causes TMJ. All that can be done is to reduce the risk factors which include clenching the teeth and avoiding activities which may cause one to be hit in the mouth.
Learning how to deal with stress, keeping your teeth healthy, getting exercise, and eating a balanced diet can also be helpful in reducing your risk.
Other than trauma, there is usually no one thing that causes TMJ. All that can be done is to reduce the risk factors which include clenching the teeth and avoiding activities which may cause one to be hit in the mouth. Learning how to deal with... More
