Jaw Problems

Symptoms

Clicking or grating noises when chewing or yawning, stiffness and pain are characteristics typical of temperomandibular joint syndrome. Sometimes, the pain in the jaw extends to the neck and causes headaches or earaches. The joint is often so stiff the mouth cannot fully open or movement of the jaw is not smooth. It also causes the face to appear asymmetric.

Causes

These jaw problems are usually the result of muscle tension in and around the jaw. This tension is often caused by teeth clenching or teeth grinding due to stress. Biting with misaligned teeth and tooth ailments in the back molars also lead to jaw problems. Teeth crowns that are too high or too low can cause changes in the muscles and joints over the long term. Misalignment is also due to improper development of teeth, which is quite common today and has been linked to a poor diet and high sugar consumption in particular. Other conditions that cause this syndrome are scleroderma and arthritis. Stiffness and pain are also symptoms of a rheumatoid arthritis condition if it is evident elsewhere in the body.

Nutrition

Nutritional therapy should aim at controlling the stress symptoms, which are such a significant factor in temperomandibular joint syndrome. Emphasize whole grains, brown rice, vegetables, fruit, dairy products and fish in the diet. These foods are rich in antistress vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and the B complex vitamins. Give children fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, to chew on to build strong jaws. Sugar, white flour, candy and junk food reduce the body’s ability to deal with stress and should be avoided.

Nutritional Supplements

For tightness and cramping in the jaw muscles, calcium and magnesium help to relieve tension. The B vitamins will combat the effects of stress, if this is a problem.

Daily dosages:

Calcium, 1,000 mg

Magnesium, 500 mg

Vitamin B complex, 30 mg three times daily

Herbal Remedies

In addition to fortifying the diet with relaxing nutrients, herbal remedies will relieve stiffness of the jaw.

Lobelia tincture is a powerful relaxant and relieves lock jaw. Take 15-20 drops in a glass of water every hour during acute pain.

Rub St. John’s wort oil on the area of the jaw and below the ear to soothe the pain and help speed healing of muscles and tendons.

Homeopathy

An experienced homeopath can produce a more thorough treatment to bring about lasting results for chronic problems.

Tissue Salts

Tissue salts are not applicable for this condition.

External/Physical Therapies

Do not take large bites or large pieces of food into the mouth, since these require opening the mouth to a point of straining the jaw muscles. It can take up to six months to heal, but by taking small bites, the situation will improve.

Acupressure

Apply deep thumb pressure to the points, as illustrated.

Available Brand Name Products

Herbal Remedies

St. John’s Wort Extract (Natural Factors)

Valerian Root Extract (Natural Factors)

Herbal Calm (Nature’s Herbs)

Hops-Valerian Combination (Nature’s Herbs)

Valerian-Power (Nature’s Herbs)