The holidays are a time for joy, laughter, and, of course, lots of delicious food. But for those who struggle with TMJ pain, all that extra chewing, stress, and travel can make things a little less merry. TMJ treatment at Signature Smile Arts can help, but there are also plenty of simple ways to keep your jaw happy during the busy holiday season.
Is jaw pain making you feel like a Scrooge? Get relief at Signature Smile Arts! Our team located on the Magnificent Mile in Chicago, IL, can help you fight TMJ pain and dysfunction with simple, personalized treatments. Call us at (312) 654-1220 for an appointment now!
In today’s post, our Chicago dentists reveal some easy tips to avoid jaw pain and enjoy every moment this holiday season!
What Is TMJ, Anyway?
TMJ is an acronym for the term ‘temporomandibular joint,’ which is the junction where the lower jaw and skull connect. It’s one of the most hardworking joints in your body! We use it every time we talk, chew, or even yawn.
If the jaw joint gets overworked or inflamed, TMJ pain and dysfunction may develop. And, unfortunately, it’s easy to injure the temporomandibular joint, as experts believe that around 34% of the global population suffers from jaw pain.
The good news? You can prevent or avoid temporomandibular joint pain during the holiday season by following a few helpful tips from our Chicago dentists.
Watch What You Chew
Holiday feasts are full of chewy, crunchy, and tough foods. Think caramel candies, crusty bread, or that chewy roast. While it may be tempting to dig in, your TMJ might not thank you later.
Stick to softer options like creamy mashed potatoes, savory casseroles, and luxurious desserts that melt in your mouth (yes, you can enjoy that pie!).
Manage Holiday Stress
Let’s face it – the holidays can be a lot. Between shopping, cooking, and endless family gatherings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This holiday stress can cause you to clench your jaw, which puts pressure on the TMJ.
So, try to carve out time to relax. Whether it’s taking a short walk, doing some deep breathing, or watching your favorite holiday movie, a little downtime goes a long way in protecting your TMJ.
Avoid Overworking Your Jaw
Singing along to holiday carols? Chatting with friends for hours? Both are fun, but they can also tire out your TMJ. If you start to feel tension in your jaw, give it a break. Practice gently massaging the area or resting your jaw by keeping your teeth apart.
Say No to Hard Candy (and Bad Habits!)
We know it’s hard to resist candy canes or peanut brittle, but crunchy, hard foods are tough on your TMJ. Avoid chewing gum, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open presents These habits can strain the joint and lead to more pain.
Keep Good Posture
Slouching while watching holiday movies or working on the computer can actually make TMJ pain worse. Poor posture can strain the muscles around your jaw. So, sit up straight, keep your shoulders relaxed, and make sure your head isn’t jutting forward.
Keep the Holidays Fun and Pain-Free at Signature Smile Arts!
With these easy tips, you can keep TMJ pain in check and make the most of the season. But if you need a little extra help, contact the team at Signature Smile Arts in Chicago, IL. We have simple, affordable treatments that can transform your health and comfort. Call us at (312) 654-1220 or click here to schedule a visit now!
