Chewing gum may seem like a harmless habit, but if you regularly experience jaw pain, clicking, or other symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), you may want to reconsider how often you reach for a piece. Because chewing gum keeps the jaw muscles and joints working continuously, prolonged or frequent chewing may place additional strain on an already irritated jaw.
Research suggests there may be a connection between frequent gum chewing and TMD symptoms, although the relationship isn’t necessarily the same for everyone. If chewing gum seems to make your symptoms worse, taking a break may give your jaw a chance to rest.
How Does Gum Chewing Affect the Jaw?
Your temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and work with several muscles to help you talk, chew, and open and close your mouth. These structures handle plenty of movement throughout the day, but repetitive activities can put additional demands on them.
Unlike chewing a meal, chewing gum can continue for an extended period without a natural stopping point. Frequent or prolonged chewing may fatigue the jaw muscles and increase the amount of work required from the joints.
If you already have TMD symptoms, that additional activity may make discomfort more noticeable. Taking regular breaks from gum chewing can help reduce unnecessary stress on your jaw.
What Symptoms Should You Watch For?
TMD can cause several different symptoms, and they don’t necessarily look the same for everyone. Possible signs include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness.
- Pain while chewing.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds accompanied by discomfort.
- Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth.
- Headaches or facial pain.
- A jaw that locks or catches.
- Pain around the ear or neck.
Occasional jaw clicking without pain or restricted movement isn’t necessarily a sign that something is wrong. However, persistent pain, painful clicking, difficulty opening your mouth, or changes in how your jaw moves should be evaluated by a dental professional.
Should You Stop Chewing Gum?
If chewing gum appears to trigger or worsen your symptoms, taking a break is a sensible first step. Reducing repetitive jaw activities may give irritated muscles and joints an opportunity to settle down.
You may also want to avoid other habits that keep your jaw working unnecessarily, such as chewing on pens, biting your nails, or clenching your teeth. Your dentist can provide more specific recommendations based on your symptoms and oral health.
The research doesn’t establish that gum chewing causes TMD in every person. However, frequent gum chewing may contribute to symptoms for some people, particularly when combined with other factors that place stress on the jaw.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Don’t ignore ongoing jaw pain or assume that discomfort is something you simply have to live with. TMD can have multiple contributing factors, and identifying the source of your symptoms is an important part of choosing appropriate treatment.
A dentist can evaluate your jaw, teeth, and bite, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether TMD may be contributing to your discomfort. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include lifestyle changes, exercises, physical therapy, or other conservative approaches.
If gum chewing is aggravating your jaw, giving your joints a break may be a helpful place to start. Persistent or worsening symptoms, however, deserve professional attention.
About the Practice
West Maitland Dentistry in Maitland, Florida, is led by Dr. Avni Dhaliwal, DDS, who has more than 15 years of experience in dentistry. After earning her undergraduate and dental degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Dhaliwal went on to earn a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry after completing 500 hours of continuing education and a rigorous examination. She has also completed advanced training in TMJ and orofacial pain therapy, including hands-on training through the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Her additional education in dental sleep medicine and active memberships in several professional dental organizations reflect her commitment to continuing education and comprehensive patient care.
Call us at (407) 335-4600 or schedule your appointment online
