How Holiday Stress Can Make TMJ Worse

The holidays bring about a surge of stress for some people. Between the pressure of holiday shopping, family gatherings, travel plans, and a packed schedule, it’s no wonder that stress levels can skyrocket. The holiday stress may lead to a TMJ flare-up and exacerbate your symptoms.

Increased Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

During the holidays, the stress of planning events, meeting expectations, or dealing with family dynamics can lead to an increase in bruxism. The constant clenching of the jaw can put a significant strain on the temporomandibular joint.

Whether during the day or while you sleep, it can make TMJ symptoms much worse.

Poor Posture During Stressful Situations

Stress often leads to physical tension, and many people unconsciously tense their shoulders and neck muscles. Poor posture can worsen jaw pain, as the misalignment of the head and neck puts added pressure on the TMJ.

Long hours of sitting, especially while working on holiday tasks or using electronic devices, can contribute to this misalignment.

Disrupted Sleep Patterns

The holidays often disrupt normal routines. Hence, stress can lead to poor-quality sleep or difficulty falling asleep. Lack of sleep can increase the likelihood of bruxism and worsen TMJ pain.

Additionally, if you’re already experiencing jaw pain, poor rest can make the muscles in the jaw and neck more prone to stiffness.

Holiday Foods and Drinks

Certain holiday foods and drinks can aggravate TMJ symptoms. For example, hard or chewy foods, like candy canes, nuts, or caramel, can strain the jaw. Similarly, alcohol, which many people consume during the holidays, can lead to dehydration. It can also lead to increased muscle tension, further aggravating TMJ pain.

Book Your TMJ Treatment in Boulder, CO

Holiday stress can significantly exacerbate TMJ symptoms, making the festive season feel more painful than joyful. By staying mindful of stress triggers, practicing relaxation techniques, and taking steps to manage your TMJ, you can make it through the holiday season with less discomfort and more enjoyment. Our team of experienced TMJ specialists offers non-invasive TMJ solutions to help ease your symptoms so you can focus on enjoying the season.

If symptoms persist or worsen, call us at 303-449-1119 and schedule an appointment with Adler Cosmetic & Family Dentistry.