Cornerstone Dental Wellness is pleased to provide essential insights into daily activities that may worsen temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) symptoms, empowering patients with the knowledge they need for better management and relief. As a leading provider of comprehensive dental care in Okotoks, we are committed to supporting our patients in their journey to optimal oral health and comfort.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms such as jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully. While TMJ can have various underlying causes, certain daily activities and habits can exacerbate symptoms and contribute to discomfort.

One common activity that may worsen TMJ symptoms is clenching or grinding the teeth, known as bruxism. Whether due to stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders, teeth grinding places excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Additionally, habits such as nail-biting or chewing on pens or pencils can strain the jaw muscles and exacerbate TMJ symptoms.

Another daily activity that may contribute to TMJ discomfort is poor posture. Slouching or hunching over can misalign the spine and affect the alignment of the jaw, leading to tension and strain in the temporomandibular joint. Similarly, holding the phone between the shoulder and ear or cradling it with the chin can place undue stress on the jaw muscles and exacerbate TMJ symptoms.

Furthermore, certain dietary habits can worsen TMJ symptoms. Chewing gum excessively or consuming hard, crunchy foods can strain the jaw muscles and aggravate TMJ discomfort. Similarly, biting into large or tough foods without proper chewing can place excessive strain on the temporomandibular joint.

"Our dentists in Okotoks understand the challenges faced by patients with TMJ disorder and are committed to providing comprehensive care and support," says Dr. Joe Holland, lead dentist at Cornerstone Dental Wellness. "By educating our patients about daily activities that may exacerbate TMJ symptoms, we can empower them to make informed choices and adopt habits that promote comfort and relief."

In addition to avoiding activities that worsen TMJ symptoms, patients can benefit from practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and tension in the jaw muscles. Applying heat or ice packs to the jaw area can also help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorder.

For individuals experiencing persistent or severe TMJ symptoms, seeking professional treatment is essential. At Cornerstone Dental Wellness, we offer a range of treatment options for TMJ disorder, including custom-made oral appliances, physical therapy, medication, and stress management techniques.

"For patients struggling with TMJ disorder, relief is possible with the right approach," adds Dr. Joe Holland. "Our experienced dental team is here to provide personalized care and support, helping patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life."

For more information about TMJ disorder and to schedule a consultation appointment, please visit https://www.cornerstonedentalwellness.com/ or contact (403) 995-1800.

About Cornerstone Dental Wellness:

Cornerstone Dental Wellness is a leading dental practice serving patients in Okotoks and surrounding areas. Led by Dr. Joe Holland and a team of experienced dental professionals, the dentist in Okotoks is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. From preventive and general dentistry to specialized treatments such as TMJ therapy, Cornerstone Dental Wellness offers comprehensive care to meet the unique needs of each patient.