During this COVID-19 pandemic, the stress level of Americans across the country is increasing. While this is having an impact on everyone, people that suffer from TMJ disorders are going to notice an increase in symptoms. Even if they’re typically managed well, they’re likely to come back due to the stress. Dr. Richard Sousa, a dentist in Roslyn Heights, NY, lets you know what to keep an eye out for.
More Pain and Headaches
Even if you have a nightguard to keep your teeth grinding and clenching in check, you’ll probably experience an increase of this with stress. It may start to happen more throughout the day, as well as at night. This means you’ll experience more pain throughout your jaw, neck, and face, in addition to more headaches.
Throughout the day, if you catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, try to make a conscious effort to relax your jaw. You can even utilize a technique like snapping a rubber band on your wrist when you notice yourself grinding and clenching throughout the day.
Issues With Jaw Function
With more tension and grinding issues with your teeth, you’re probably going to notice a decrease in jaw function as well. You may notice popping and clicking noises when you’re using your jaw. There can be issues when you’re chewing or talking and you may have difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
Since you’re isolated at home, there are exercises and massage techniques you can utilize to try and help with your TMJ disorder. If you have a partner, roommate, or family member with you, they can help you out with these techniques. After the pandemic, we can reevaluate your condition and other therapies to help you.
Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth
With more grinding and clenching, there’s more wear and tear on your teeth. In addition to wearing them down faster and more unevenly, there’s more of a chance of damaging your teeth. This can range from a small, cosmetic chip to a more severe break or crack.
With a crack or severe break, it’s important to get treated immediately. A crack makes it easy for bacteria to get in there and cause infection or tooth decay. A severe break can expose the tooth pulp, making a painful situation for you. As emergency dentistry is still offered during the pandemic, call us immediately if this happens to you.
Your Dentist in Roslyn Heights, New York
Take care of your TMJ symptoms the best you can during the crisis. We’ll be here to help you after, reassessing your condition to get you the best treatment possible. Call us or schedule an appointment online for the future. We hope to see you soon!