TMJ pain can severely interfere with daily life. From difficulty chewing to jaw pain and headache, TMJ disorders (TMD) can be very bothersome. While treatments such as TMJ therapy or orthodontic treatment might be beneficial, you might be surprised to realize that proper dietary changes can also play a big role in alleviating pain. Dr. Phan of Woodlands Dentistry & Orthodontics offers practical nutritional advice to help reduce the pain and inflammation of TMJ.

The Connection Between Diet and TMJ Pain

TMJ pain is due to joint dysfunction in the jaw, causing facial, neck, and shoulder pain. Although a plethora of factors contribute to TMJ, such as stress, teeth grinding, and jaw clenching, your diet can aggravate or alleviate TMJ.

Some foods can increase inflammation, while others may help reduce it. When dealing with TMJ, it’s important to focus on foods that support joint health and avoid those that could worsen symptoms. Making small adjustments to your diet can complement your TMJ treatment in The Woodlands, reducing pain and improving overall comfort.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods for TMJ Pain Relief

To relieve TMJ pain, the first thing to do is turn towards anti-inflammatory foods, which bring down inflammation and inflammation-related irritation in the joint. Some of the best foods to incorporate into your diet are:

• Fatty Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines have omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation. Omega-3 is also well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can also relieve joint pain and heal.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula contain antioxidants and other key nutrients. They promote overall health and may assist in reducing inflammation throughout the body, including the jaw.
• Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which can fight off inflammation that comes with TMJ disorders.
• Turmeric and Ginger: Both are well-researched for their anti-inflammatory qualities. Adding turmeric or ginger to food or drink will reduce pain and swelling of the TMJ.
• Olive Oil: This is a healthy fat and has oleocanthal as a compound, which has been found to reduce inflammation in a similar manner to ibuprofen. It’s a great addition to salad or as a cooking medium.

Foods to Avoid with TMJ Pain

Just like some foods can ease TMJ pain, some foods can worsen the symptoms. You should avoid foods that may trigger inflammation or result in jaw tension. Below are foods to reduce or avoid:

• Processed Foods: Refined sugars, artificial preservatives, and unhealthy fats present in processed foods can lead to inflammation and exacerbate the symptoms of TMJ.
• Hard or Crunchy Foods: Nuts, raw veggies, and hard meat all require a lot of chewing, which applies pressure to the jaw muscles and worsens the pain of TMJ.
• Chewy Candies and Gum: Chewing gum and sticky candies have the tendency to force the jaw into overactivity, increasing tension and pain within the temporomandibular joint.
• Caffeinated Beverages: Excessive caffeine increases stress and contributes to muscle tension, which can increase TMJ pain.
• Acidic Food Items: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and foods with vinegar irritate the jaw muscles and joints, augmenting inflammation.

Dr. Phan’s Dietary Tips for TMJ Pain Relief

Dr. Phan also emphasizes that food changes should be consistent. Small steps such as staying away from trigger foods, increasing intake of water, and including anti-inflammatory foods in meals can lead to great benefits in the treatment of TMJ pain.

Dr. Phan suggests starting with small, achievable changes. Something as simple as substituting a sweet treat with a side of berries or adding turmeric to your food can be easy yet powerful steps that will alleviate TMJ discomfort. Contact him at Woodlands Dentistry & Orthodontics to find relief from jaw pain.