Changes in your diet can reduce the mechanical stress on your temporomandibular
(TM) joint and may help relieve your jaw pain.
Avoid hard or chewy foods (such
as popcorn, jerky, tough meats, chewy breads, gum, and raw apples and carrots)
that cause your jaws to work overtime. Choose softer foods that are easy to
chew, such as eggs, casseroles, yogurt, and soup.
Cut your food into small, bite-sized pieces and chew slowly.
Don't chew gum for long periods of time.
If your jaw hurts when you eat a certain food, avoid that
food for a week or more until any pain in your jaw is gone.
If your joint becomes
too painful to allow chewing, or if it locks, you may need to puree your food
in a food processor for a few days or weeks.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
