If you have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, then you may already be well aware of how it affects your everyday life. You likely have discomfort in your jaw that radiates to your neck or ear, but many people often feel that it’s a bit stiff. With trouble opening and closing your mouth, it can make it harder to figure out what’s safe to eat. Keep reading to learn what you should stock your pantry with and what to avoid.
How Can Someone Develop TMJ Disorder?
Having chronic jaw pain can be a result of a few different things. It may have happened because of stress that led you to clench or grind your teeth, or you had a facial injury. In some cases, it might’ve been caused by an uneven bite.
Over time, your TMJ will become inflamed, leading to the discomfort you may be familiar with. It might give you a headache, but it can also click and pop when you open your mouth to eat. Enjoying your favorite meals from before can seem like a challenge you have to deal with.
What Foods Are Safe to Eat and What Should I Avoid?
Thankfully, there are many foods that can make your TMJ disorder symptoms a bit more manageable. It’s best to stick to soft foods as they don’t require much chewing.
This doesn’t mean that you need to have smoothies and purees only, but rather picking the right options. Soft proteins, such as baked salmon or eggs, can be combined with things like pastas and rice in several different ways to create exciting options. Not only that, but many fruits and vegetables are easy to eat, such as bananas, boiled carrots, and squash. All it takes is a bit of experimenting and research to create a diverse meal plan that’s comfortable to eat.
With that being said, anything that’s too chewy, tough, or crunchy can spell some trouble for your TMJ. If you need to overextend your jaw, then it can also lead to more discomfort. Beef jerky, caramel, gummies, and fried meats are a few options that you may want to steer clear of.
How Can I Treat My TMJ Disorder?
Dealing with jaw pain can definitely put a damper on mealtime if you deal with it day after day. It’s important to schedule a visit with your dentist to help address the root of the problem. By figuring out what’s causing your TMJ disorder, you can get the treatment you need to get long-lasting relief!
About the Author
Dr. Gabriel Nossa earned his dental degree from the University of Florida – College of Dentistry. He believes in giving the Gainesville community the best care that they deserve, so he has taken many hours of continuing education. Dr. Nossa’s knowledge and experience allow him to treat TMJ disorder. Getting the treatment you need will help you get back toward comfortable eating once again. If you are dealing with jaw pain, schedule an appointment or call his office at (352) 332-8133.