Have you ever developed a headache after a few hours of chewing gum? Just an unfortunate coincidence or could the two be linked? Research suggests there may be a link between TMJ disorder and regular gum chewing. So, whether you enjoy gum to freshen your breath, stave off hunger, or reduce stress, your dentist in Pittsburgh discusses how it could potentially contribute to the development of TMJ disorder.
What Are Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
TMJ Disorder, also referred to as TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction), affects the two TMJs (temporomandibular joints) on each side of your jaw. People who suffer from TMD experience misalignment or deterioration of the joints due to the degeneration of cartilage. This cartilage is important for absorbing the tension produced when you chew. Without it, people can experience symptoms like:
- Popping or clicking when you open your mouth or chew
- Pain in and around the jaw
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Headaches
- Earaches
How Are Chewing Gum and TMD Linked?
So how does chewing gum have anything to do with TMD? Researchers conducted a study to address this question—they studied two groups of subjects, one which chewed gum for 30, 60, or 120 minutes in a day and another that did not chew gum. The research team then documented signs and symptoms of TMD in the participants.
The results? The occurrence of clicking and pain in participants who chewed gum regularly was higher than in the group that didn’t chew gum.
How Can Chewing Gum Worsen TMD?
It’s believed that chewing gum creates extra tension and puts strain on the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint. This means that people who already struggle with TMD could potentially worsen their symptoms, and those without TMD may be at a higher risk of developing the disorder.
Your dentist may recommend you avoid chewing gum if you experience pain in your jaw, head, or neck. Avoiding the habit can allow the joints and muscles to relax, potentially lessening pain and clicking.
If you struggle with TMD, it may not be a bad idea to consider ditching your gum-chewing habit. You should contact your dentist in Pittsburgh to see if TMJ therapy would be a good option. They will be able to help you find relief from the headaches, popping of your jaw, or other symptoms you’ve been suffering from.
About the Author
Dr. Joyce Warwick earned her dental doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. Her office’s motto is “gentle dentistry for your busy lifestyle.” Dr. Warwick attends more than 100 hours of continuing education each year to stay current in the dental field, and she is a Fellow at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. If you potentially need to treat TMJ disorder, she and fellow dentist Dr. John Warwick are trained in neuromuscular dentistry to relieve your pain and improve jaw function. Schedule a consultation on their website or call (412) 391-1130.