Do you have tension in your shoulders, neck, and jaw area? Most people don’t know that bad posture and sitting all day could lead to these issues, but the truth is that these are tell-tale signs of TMJ disorder. This common jaw condition can actually be impacted by bad posture, and vice versa, leading to an endless rotation of uncomfortable symptoms and life-impacting discomfort. Read on to learn how your posture impacts the function of your jaw joints.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the function of your two jaw joints. These are complex ball and hinge joints that allow you to open and close your mouth, as well as move your lower jaw from side-to-side, and they’re essential for speaking and chewing food. When they sustain an injury or too much pressure and tension, they can become strained and dysfunctional.
Depending on how serious the condition is, it can result in a number of symptoms that range from more mild to severe. Some signs to keep an eye out for include:
- Clicking and popping of the jaw joints
- Jaw pain
- Jaw fatigue while chewing
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide
- Limited jaw movement
- Migraines or frequent headaches
- Aching in the ear
If you spot any of these, it’s always a good idea to make your dentist aware at your routine checkup and cleaning so they can conduct a more thorough evaluation.
How Does Your Posture Impact Your Jaw Function?
What many people don’t realize is that one of the factors that can impact the function of their jaw is their posture. For example, if you’re sitting down at a desk all day and assume a more “rounded” body position due to a lack of lumbar support, it can cause tension build-up in the head and neck area, and as a result, the facial muscles and jaw as well. Be sure to take multiple breaks throughout the day to adjust your body and move tension through it by stretching, standing up, and rolling your shoulders.
A good test to see if you’re carrying stress in the jaw area is to notice whether you’re in the TMJ rest position. This is when your tongue is gently rested in your mouth, your teeth are slightly apart, and your lips are together, and most importantly, your jaw is slack. If you are, then your muscles are likely relaxed, but if you aren’t, it’s a good idea to get up, stretch and give yourself a little extra lumbar support!
What Treatments are Available for Jaw Pain?
If you’re experiencing the symptoms listed above, you don’t have to just live with them. Ask your dentist in Bullard about TMJ treatment! This includes a number of non-invasive treatment options to help release tension on your facial muscles and jaw joints, like a customized occlusal splint, occlusal adjustment, and even relief from migraines. These work by helping balance your bite, preventing one jaw joint from doing more work than the other, as well as shifting your jaw into its ideal position as you sleep to prevent them from remaining stressed, even when you’re relaxed!
Learn more about what’s causing your jaw pain, migraines, and neck and shoulder tension by visiting your dentist for a thorough evaluation. Whether it’s your posture or other underlying issues, they can diagnose your condition and help you take the first steps towards much-needed relief.
About the Author
Dr. Tad Morgan has decades of experience under his belt and completed over 1,000 hours of continuing education courses throughout his career. He’s also attended the renowned Pankey Institute and has trained under several world-class experts, like Dr. Larry Rosenthal. As a member of the Breath Institute and American Academy of Gnathologic Orthopedics, he’s dedicated to helping his patients eliminate their jaw pain by providing quality, personalized TMJ treatment. To schedule a consultation or learn more, visit the Tad Morgan, DDS’ website or call 903-825-1112.