Last Updated on August 20, 2024
It’s common for many of us to grab a bite quickly, but jaw pain and chewing problems can arise from attempting to fit oversized portions into your mouth. Americans have grown accustomed to bigger food portions at restaurants, but our mouths have not. Trying to fit that oversized sandwich or apple in your mouth might be worse for you than you have ever imagined. Below are some reasons why this could be detrimental for your oral health and what you can do about it.
Why This Is a Problem
According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), taking bites that are too big for you to chew can not only cause jaw and teeth issues, it can also cause digestive problems. Discomfort, swelling and difficulty eating may result from opening your jaw too wide. Taking large bites may also result in food not being chewed thoroughly, which can lead to weight gain and digestive issues.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
Constantly opening your jaw too wide becomes an even larger problem for people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull bones enabling movement during chewing. People with TMD, usually have a restriction with how wide they can open their jaws. Taking large bites of food, especially hard foods like apples, can aggravate this condition making pain and jaw clicking worse.
What You Can Do
If you have food that is too large to chew or starts to cause jaw discomfort, try cutting your food into smaller portions. This makes food easier to eat with less hassle. Also consider eating softer foods that won’t harm your teeth or irritate your jaw.
Conclusion: Protect Your Jaw Health
Managing jaw pain and chewing issues involves being mindful of your eating habits. By taking smaller bites and choosing softer foods, you can prevent discomfort and maintain your oral health. If you experience persistent jaw pain or discomfort, contact our team to schedule an exam and cleaning.
Riverview Dental Arts Florida address:
10627 Rivercrest Dr., Riverview, FL 33578
(813) 677-1177