Prevention Tips: For A Healthy Jaw
Total oral health involves more than your teeth and gums. When your jaw is healthy, it will reduce your risk of temporomandibular joint disorder and a wide range of problems associated with this condition. You can start with some prevention tips so you can have a healthy jaw.
Biting And Chewing-
To avoid jaw problems, start with your biting and chewing habits. One example is the nervous habit of biting or chewing your fingernails, pens and pencils, or other objects. You need to avoid these habits for a healthy mouth and jaw.
A second example is eating food that is difficult to bite or chew. Hard candies, nuts, gum, and chewy products are in this category. You will have a healthier jaw if you avoid these foods and snacks.
Grinding Teeth-
Many people have the habit of grinding their teeth, especially during the night. Not only can this habit wear down your tooth enamel, it can have harmful effects on your jaw.
If you have this habit, visit your dentist for solutions. One of the easiest approaches is to wear a mouth guard when you sleep. Your dentist can provide a mouth guard for you so grinding will not damage your teeth and jaw.
Missing Teeth-
When you are missing one or more teeth, it affects your ability to chew. This can also cause problems with your jaw.
If you are missing teeth, you need to discuss this issue with your dentist. One of the simplest solutions is having missing teeth replaced with dental implants. It will be easier for you to chew your food, and you will have a healthy mouth and jaw.
Dental Tips For Jaw Health-
You may have jaw problems without realizing it. Unexplained headaches, facial swelling, unusual sounds coming from your jaw when you open or close your mouth, and pain in your mouth or jaw are symptoms associated with jaw disorders.
Even if it is not time for your routine visit, make an appointment with your dentist if you notice these symptoms. A check-up can determine the cause of the symptoms, and how the problem should be corrected.