30 Oct Managing TMJ and Pregnancy Discomfort Safely
Did you know that the onset of TMJ pain can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the resulting physical and/or emotional stress? You probably expected pregnancy to be uncomfortable, but jaw pain probably didn’t come to mind.
If you’re experiencing headaches, jaw pain, clicking, or find it difficult to eat certain foods, you may have a case of TMJ disorder. At TMJ & Sleep Solutions of Alabama, we understand the importance of sleep and pain management for pregnant women. Let’s explore some ways to manage TMJ and pregnancy, so you can get the rest and relief you need.
TMJ and Pregnancy: What’s the Correlation?
It is not uncommon for women to experience TMJ pain while pregnant. Although there’s no sole known cause of TMJ disorder, it likely correlates with genetics, hormonal changes, and physical or emotional stressors—things that are known to fluctuate in pregnant women. Pregnancy can cause the temporomandibular joints to loosen, sometimes causing them to move out of alignment, resulting in pain and soreness.
Consult with your doctor or dentist if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Jaw locking, clicking, or popping
- Pain in your face, jaw, or neck
- Headaches
- Discomfort while chewing
Your symptoms may go away on their own, but if symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend the following for relief:
- Alternating ice and heat on the face and jaw area
- Exercises to ease facial tension, improve jaw mobility, and strengthen facial muscles
- Practicing mindfulness through meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
- Wearing a mouthguard
Here are 4 Exercises to Help with TMJ Flare-Ups. Check out our blog for more information on TMJ pain and sleep disruption.
Your Questions Answered:
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about TMJ and pregnancy:
Will My TMJ Pain Subside After Giving Birth?
In some cases, TMJ pain will subside after giving birth, but this is not always the case. Some women may even experience postpartum TMJ pain. Like pregnancy, the body must adjust to new changes associated with giving birth.
Will I Always Have TMJ Pain While Pregnant?
While TMJ and pregnancy are not directly related, changes that occur to the body during pregnancy can increase the chances of TMJ pain and discomfort. For many people, TMJ disorder results from stress, which makes sense as to why it can be common to occur in pregnant women. A pregnant woman’s body is undergoing hormonal, physical, and emotional changes–all of which can take a toll on areas of the body that you might not expect, like the temporomandibular joints.
How Can I Find Fast Relief?
We recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever in addition to jaw exercises and applying heat and ice compresses for fast relief. Usually, combining these methods is the most effective approach. Be sure to consult with your doctor first before beginning any new treatments while pregnant.
At TMJ & Sleep Solutions of Alabama, we answer all your questions about face and jaw pain and can provide the solutions you need for true relief. If you’re experiencing TMJ pain while pregnant, contact us online or call (205) 874-9699 today.