TMJ Syndrome (Temporomandibular Joint)

LifeSource Vitamins

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. When it is functioning properly, the bones of the joint allow the mouth to open smoothly and easily. Sometimes, however, there is a misalignment of the teeth or the jaw. In more serious cases, the cartilage that protects the joint wears down. Without cartilage to act as a cushion, the bones rub against each other.

TMJ can be caused by anything that places unusual pressure on the joint. A blow to the jawbone, habitual gum chewing, or poor orthodontic work are all possible factors. But by far the most frequent cause of TMJ is frequent grinding or clenching of the teeth. This seemingly benign habit is usually brought on by stress that causes muscles in the jaw to tighten. Another common underlying cause of TMJ is a structural misalignment of the jaw or teeth (called malocclusion by doctors and dentists) or the cranial or facial bones can be involved. In addition, imbalanced musculature and spinal alignment in other areas of the body can be an underlying root cause of TMJ syndrome. Finally, deficiencies of nutrients such as magnesium can make this problem worse, because muscles tend to spasm and tighten more easily.

No matter what the cause, TMJ is at best uncomfortable and at worst almost unbearably painful. The first sign of a problem may be difficulty opening the mouth all the way or perhaps a popping or clicking sound when yawning or chewing. As the disorder progresses, the jaw muscles will begin to feel tender. This tenderness may develop into an ache or sharp pain, which can spread to the neck, the ears, or the face.

A note of caution: Despite what some doctors or dentists may tell you, TMJ syndrome is real. But there have been many reports of unscrupulous professionals touting "miracle" cures for TMJ in the form of expensive and invasive treatments, including surgery. Before you undergo any aggressive measures, try the gentle home care and relaxation therapies suggested here. Chances are that they'll bring you substantial, if not total, relief. If you try these therapies and still have a great deal of pain, consult with a reputable, qualified specialist-and always, ask for a full explanation of any procedure before you agree to it. Many naturopathic, osteopathic, or chiropractic physicians can help people with TMJ syndrome, using nonsurgical techniques. Acupuncture can also be quite helpful, as can stress-reduction techniques.

** All of these prescriptions below have been proven effective; level of effectiveness depends on the individual. Please consult your doctor when taking any and all supplements.

The top 7 vitamins and supplements shown to help TMJ Syndrome:

Symptoms

• Clicking, popping, or grating noises when chewing or opening the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth all the way
• Stiffness, tenderness, or pain in the jaw
• Neck pain
• Earache
• Facial pain
• An asymmetrical appearance to the face
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ear

Root Causes

• Tooth grinding or clenching (usually, the result of stress or a blood-sugar imbalance)
• Misalignment of the teeth or the jaw
• Poor orthodontia or dental work
• Injuries to the jaw
• Postural problems
• Frequent gum-chewing
• Prolonged thumb-sucking
• Muscle and spinal alignment imbalance
• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., magnesium, calcium)

TREATMENT

Diet

Recommended Food

If your TMJ syndrome is acute, eat foods that require less chewing or that are not as hard to chew. Examples include soups, stews, steamed or cooked vegetables, and protein shakes. Focus on foods that will stabilize your blood-sugar levels. Vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds, soy products, and fish should be the mainstays of your diet. Instead of eating three large meals, plan on five or six smaller ones through the day. You'll keep your blood sugar in balance and won't be tempted to snack on sweet treats.

Foods to Avoid

Avoid sugary foods like candy, chocolate, sodas, and most baked goods. They disturb blood-sugar levels and contribute to stress.

Stay away from caffeine, which causes muscles to tighten. Tea and coffee are obviously sources of caffeine, but chocolate, some pain-relievers, and over-the-counter cold medications have high amounts as well.

Alcohol has been linked to teeth-grinding. Although a drink or two may seem like a good way to relax, herbal teas are a much wiser choice for people with TMJ.
Don't chew anything that's hard on your jaw. Gum, caramels, bagels, animal meats, and hard or gooey candy are off-limits.

Detoxification

Go on a one- to three-day juice fast to cleanse your body of excess sugars. Support your fast with broths, herbal teas, and vegetable juices. If you must have some fruit juice, dilute it with water first.

General Recommendations

Glucosamine sulfate builds cartilage. Take 1,500 mg daily if you have cartilage deterioration in the TMJ.

Proudly Made in the USA!

Every LifeSource Vitamins product exceeds all regulatory standards and requirements set forth in the FDA's Code of Federal Regulation. ( 21 CFR, part 111 ) as well as all Good Manufacturing Practices enforced by the FDA. CGMP's provide for systems that assure proper design, monitoring, and control of manufacturing processes and facilities. ( CGMP ).

LifeSource Vitamins: Driven by Faith ~ Powered by God

Have Questions on this or any other product or health issue for you or a loved one? It can be overwhelming we know. Call us, we will walk you through what supplements will help you and which ones you really don’t need. It’s what we do! Toll-Free: 800-567-8122

LifeSource Vitamins – Founded in 1992

100% of our profits are donated to Christian Organizations like these and many others worldwide:

Campus Crusade for Christ - CRU

The Jesus Film Project

World Vision

The Tim Tebow Foundation

Compassion International

Samaritan’s Purse

The Herman and Sharron Show on CTN (Christian Television Network) and many more…

www.LifesourceVitamins.com

E-mail Us: [email protected]

or Call Us: 800.567.8122

We Are Built on Compassion - Driven by Faith & Powered by God!

*Disclaimer: None of the above statements have been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. As always, consult your physician before taking any and all supplements. LifeSource Vitamins. Individual results may vary.

Disclaimer: All the information contained throughout this website is based upon the opinions of the founder of LifeSource Vitamins, Bruce Brightman, and the entire team at LifeSource Vitamins whose relentless research and studies have been ongoing since 1992. Other articles and information are based on the opinions of the authors, who retain the copyright as marked in the article. The information on this site is not intended to replace your health care professional, but to enhance your relationship with them. Doing your own studying and research and taking your health care into your own hands is always best, especially in partnership with your health care professional.

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical conditions, always consult your health care professional before taking supplements based on the information on this site.

LifeSource Vitamins: from the nutrients we choose, to the way we run our business, we answer to God in all we do!