New Year’s Resolutions for TMD Patients

New Year’s Resolutions for TMD Patients
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Category: TMJ Tips

As the year comes to a close, many of us are thinking of resolutions for the upcoming year. If you suffer from temporomandibular (TMJ) disorder, Dr. Ivan Stein of the Headache & TMJ Center of New Jersey would like to offer a few resolutions that can help alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life during the new year and beyond.

Get a Good Night’s Rest

Numerous studies show a good night’s rest can help decrease stress (a risk factor for TMD) and increase one’s overall well-being. Aim for eight hours of sleep a night and stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid sugary foods and caffeine, and rigorous physical activity right before you go to sleep. Practice deep breathing or other forms of meditation that will help calm your body and mind before going to bed. If you are having trouble sleeping because of TMJ pain, reach out to a TMJ specialist for treatment options.

Exercise Your Jaw

If you’re like most people, exercising more is definitely one of your resolutions. While staying fit and healthy is certainly important, so too is strengthening your jaw, regardless of whether you have TMD or not. Simple jaw exercises can help ease the symptoms associated with TMD or even reduce one’s likelihood of developing the condition.

Cook TMJ-Friendly Recipes

Whether you’re looking to cook more or eat healthier this new year, we encourage you to try a few TMJ-friendly dishes. Hard or chewy foods can exacerbate TMJ pain and damage your teeth. Try cooking at least one new recipe once a month.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Many dental issues can be caused by or lead to TMD pain. For instance, grinding your teeth can wear down enamel, exposing your teeth to a slew of issues including tooth sensitivity, which in turn can lead to TMJ pain. This is why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can treat dental issues early, before they become serious or lead to TMJ pain. It is recommended that everyone visit their dentist once every six months.

Schedule an Appointment with a TMJ Specialist

Regardless of whether you have visited a TMJ specialist in the past or not, start the new year off right by scheduling an appointment. If left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to serious pain and health issues. If you are already undergoing treatment for TMD, regular checkups with a TMJ specialist can help manage your condition and ensure your treatment is the right one for you.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ivan Stein, please contact the Headache & TMJ Center of New Jersey by calling (855) MTJ-DOCS or (855) 865-3627 today.