With a variety of world-class breweries, it’s no wonder Bend, Oregon, is known as “Beervana.” Whether you are a local or a visitor to Bend, it’s easy to become captivated by the craft beer that Bend has to offer. The only downside to this overwhelming array of talented brewmasters is dealing with the effects of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) pain.
Fortunately, Dr. Mingus has expert tips for savoring Bend’s brews without painful TMJ symptoms. As a practicing dentist with over three decades of experience treating TMJ disorders, Dr. Ron Mingus is committed to the long-term value of simple, proactive solutions for common TMJ-related problems, such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing and swallowing.
Tips for Savoring Bend’s Brews Without TMJ Pain
Use a bottle opener instead of your teeth. Biting down on metal bottle caps can be a trigger for TMJ pain, therefore it’s important to use a bottle opener whenever possible. Also avoid biting directly into glassware or aluminum cans. It may even be helpful to purchase a bottle opener to use as a lip guard (something that is typically utilized as an aid for sports-related injuries) to help protect your jaw from the metal cap.
Drink from a straw if you can. Straws are a simple, low-key way to help reduce the pressure on your jaw, which can help to minimize the risk of TMJ pain in the moment and prevent a flare-up later on.
Avoid chewy snacks and appetizers. Chewy treats, such as gum, candy, or even beef jerky, can take a toll on your TMJ joints. If you need a snack to go along with your craft beer, try lean meat, veggies, cheese, or dip instead.
Additional TMJ Pain Management Practices
Use gentle, circular motions at mealtimes. When an individual has TMJ pain, it’s important to chew carefully, and with an emphasis on a rotational movement. Experimenting with variations on that gentle approach can help to reduce the load on the jaw joint, thus aiding in relaxation of the muscles.
Get adequate rest. This may seem obvious, but insomnia, or poor quality sleep, can exacerbate and worsen the pain associated with TMJ. Make sure to get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Prioritize proper sleep—both before and after the enjoyment of Bend’s brews!
Keep Stress to a Minimum. Finally, make a conscientious effort to reduce stress—the leading cause of TMJ flare-ups—so that you can continue to enjoy all the Bend breweries have to offer without the prospect of serious TMJ discomfort. Try meditation or other mindfulness practices to help you unwind.
Seeing a Dentist in Bend for Optimal TMJ Relief
In addition to these simple lifestyle practices, seeing a qualified dentist can make a significant difference when it comes to managing your TMJ pain. It is best to see a TMJ specialist who can provide personalized advice and solutions, as well as treatments that can help to minimize symptoms in the long term. Dr. Mingus recommends talking to your dentist about what you can do to reduce or eliminate symptoms, as well as if any advanced treatments are appropriate for your case.
Dr. Ron Mingus is committed to helping his Bend patients continue to enjoy all of their favorite breweries without worry of TMJ pain, and he is more than happy to address all of your concerns. If you need help with TMJ, jaw dysfunction, or anything else related to maintaining good oral health, Dr. Mingus can be a great resource in your efforts to savor Bend’s brews without painful TMJ symptoms. So what are you waiting for?
In the meantime, stay educated and practice the tips for reduction of TMJ pain in the short term.