Do the Foods You Eat Impact How Your Tmj Feels?
Posted on 3/15/2025 by Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery |
 Have you ever noticed that your jaw feels stiff or sore after eating certain foods? You might be surprised to learn that the foods you eat can actually have a significant impact on how your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) feels.
The TMJ is a complex hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth, chew food, and speak. When the TMJ is healthy, you shouldn't experience any pain or discomfort. However, if the TMJ is inflamed or irritated, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
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Jaw pain |
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Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth |
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Difficulty opening or closing your mouth |
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Locking of the jaw |
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Headaches |
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Earaches |
While there are many factors that can contribute to TMJ problems, including stress, teeth grinding, and arthritis, the foods you eat can also play a role.
How Food Impacts Your TMJ
Certain foods can put extra stress on your TMJ, making it more likely to become inflamed or irritated. These foods include:
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Hard foods: Hard foods, such as nuts, tough meats, and raw vegetables, require more force to chew, which can put strain on your TMJ. |
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Chewy foods: Chewy foods, such as gum, taffy, and caramels, can also put strain on your TMJ, as they require you to chew for a longer period of time. |
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Sugary foods: Sugary foods can increase inflammation throughout the body, including in the TMJ. |
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Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and additives, which can also contribute to inflammation. |
In addition to avoiding these foods, there are a few things you can do to help keep your TMJ healthy:
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Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will provide your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. |
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Chew your food slowly and thoroughly: Chewing your food slowly and thoroughly will help to reduce the amount of stress on your TMJ. |
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Use a warm compress: Applying a warm compress to your jaw can help to reduce pain and inflammation. |
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See a dentist or oral surgeon: If you are experiencing TMJ pain, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. |
By following these tips, you can help to keep your TMJ healthy and feeling its best.
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