Between shopping lists, travel plans, and endless to-dos, it’s no wonder the holidays can leave you tense—sometimes literally. All that stress can lead to clenching or grinding your teeth, which puts pressure on your jaw joint (the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ). The result? Headaches, jaw soreness, and even clicking or popping sounds when you chew or yawn.
Why It Happens:
When stress levels rise, many people unconsciously tighten their jaw muscles or grind their teeth, especially during sleep. Over time, this tension can irritate the TMJ and surrounding muscles, leading to pain that can radiate to the ears, neck, or head.
Simple Ways to Relax Your Jaw This Season:
- Be mindful of clenching. Throughout the day, check in with your jaw—your teeth shouldn’t touch unless you’re eating.
- Warm compresses help. Applying gentle heat can relax tight muscles and ease discomfort.
- Stretch it out. Gentle jaw exercises or facial massages can relieve tension and improve mobility.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods. Tough meats, caramel, and chewy candies can strain your jaw even more.
- Find your calm. Meditation, deep breathing, and short breaks from holiday chaos can make a big difference.
If TMJ pain is interfering with your ability to enjoy the holidays, professional help can make all the difference. At Dental Comfort Associates, we provide personalized care to relieve jaw pain and protect your smile from long-term damage.
📞 Call (201) 246-1233 to schedule an appointment today.
📍 Visit us at 537-A Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey 07032.
Keep your smile—and your jaw—happy this holiday season!