Pregnant women undergo several changes throughout their pregnancy. They experience several physical and hormonal changes. Their common complaint, for instance, is bleeding gums, which might provide an opportunity for infections. In addition, pregnant women are more susceptible to illnesses since their immune systems are not fully developed. However, pregnant jaw discomfort is likely the issue least discussed.
There are certainly enough concerns during pregnancy without adding TMJ discomfort to the list. TMJ, a jaw joint ailment affecting the temporomandibular joint, is, unfortunately, a side effect of pregnancy for some women. This joint is the hinge that links the jaw to the skull’s temporal bones.
What Can Happen to the TMJ?
As with any other joint, the TMJ may become swollen, fractured, or painful, resulting in limited movement of the lower jaw and discomfort and pain in the neck and head region. It is extremely uncommon and difficult to treat TMJ disorders with anti-inflammatory medications alone, unlike other joints such as the knees and hips.
Fractures of the articular disc are also uncommon, although they can be dislocated or displaced, resulting in excruciating pain and edema. Keep in mind that TMJ discomfort is frequently transient. A cold compress, exercise, and massage therapy can relieve sore muscles and ligaments surrounding the joint and jaw.
How Does Pregnancy Trigger TMJ?
Most pregnant women experience edema, the medical term for body swelling, which can be a source of discomfort. Typically, just the hands, feet, and ankles are affected.
If edema arises on the neck and face, which occurs in some but not all women, the jaw and area around the temporomandibular joint may experience an increase in pressure. TMJ discomfort might be the outcome.
Although this is a joyful moment, stress can cause clenching and grinding of teeth (bruxism), which can cause jaw discomfort, headaches, and tooth damage. Morning sickness might cause repetitive jaw tension. You may encounter sleep disturbances, such as trouble breathing, which may cause you to clench your jaw at night to keep your airway open; this can cause jaw tension.
Symptoms may include jaw clicking, jaw locking, and discomfort-related sleep disruptions. Also, for obvious reasons, pregnant women who experience nausea and vomiting do not like painful jaw movement. The strain on the jaw might also cause headaches. Visit your doctor immediately if you have unexpected swelling during pregnancy, regardless of its location, as it might indicate a more serious problem, such as high blood pressure.
The hormone relaxin, which helps loosen your body’s joints in preparation for childbirth, can also relax your jaw joint, making it more susceptible to dislocation. You wish to avoid using too many pain drugs during pregnancy, but you cannot tolerate this additional discomfort.
Even postpartum, when new circumstances occur, is a problem for TMJ and pregnancy. The lack of a normal sleep schedule and concerns over their infant are two of these pressures. Insomnia can contribute to physical stress. Lastly, a change in sleep posture might impact the jaw muscles and result in facial pain or stiffness.
How to Manage TMJ Disorders while Pregnant
The doctor will analyze your health and provide a safe and effective treatment for pain management during pregnancy. The following are the most prevalently used treatment procedures.
Simple Exercises and Massage
Active and simple stretching activities might aid with pain reduction. Stretch your tongue and hold it for a few seconds in the same position. This move will reduce the discomfort by relieving the strain on the jaw. Slowly massage your jaw while exercising it.
Getting the Right Nutrition
Again, a contributing factor to the issue is that your body provides nourishment to your child. Calcium deficiency is occasionally linked to general muscular discomfort and TMJ. Discuss your nutritional intake with your doctor to determine what you may want to increase and what you may increase safely.
Improving Your Posture
Avoid making excessive jaw movements. Do not shout or sing at the top of your lungs. Try not to chew too hard or yawn excessively. Good posture can aid in the reduction of face and jaw discomfort. Avoid placing your chin on your hand and holding the phone between your shoulder and ear. Try to maintain a tiny gap between your teeth to ease the strain on the jaw. Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth.
Many women overlook taking care of themselves throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. It is essential to continue to care for oneself. This involves regular dental hygiene, physical activity, and a good diet. Morning sickness and fatigue do not aid in these areas; however, simple stretching and yoga performed at home are beneficial. Try your best and take pleasure in parenthood. It is a lovely thing.
Medications
For pain, oral medicines such as paracetamol may be recommended. The topical administration of antispasmodic and analgesic gels may also be suggested. In cases of extreme pain, the physician may propose an injection at the location of discomfort. You should never self-medicate and instead rely solely on prescribed medications.
Root Canal Treatment
If a serious dental abscess causes your jaw discomfort, you will need root canal therapy. This therapy is not contraindicated during pregnancy; however, if it is not an emergency, the doctor may delay it until after delivery. If jaw discomfort develops early in pregnancy, the second trimester is the most secure period for dental operations and antibiotic coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What helps TMJ pain during pregnancy?
Pregnant women who experience TMJ symptoms should consult with their dentist or doctor to find relief. Treatment may include ice packs, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, or physical therapy.
Can your jaw shift during pregnancy?
It is typical for pregnant women to have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) symptoms, including jaw discomfort, clicking, or popping. The looseness of the temporomandibular joints may increase, and they may tend to move out of alignment, leading to pain and discomfort.
Read more: Can TMJ Cause Hearing Loss?
Consult with Garza DDS to learn more about how to deal with TMJ while pregnant
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, be sure to consult with an experienced TMJ dentist like Garza DDS to learn more about how to deal with the condition during pregnancy. Your symptoms may lessen as your body adapts and the baby grows. However, if the pain becomes too severe or is accompanied by other problems, please do not hesitate to seek medical attention. We wish you a healthy and happy time during your pregnancy!