Foods That Help TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ disorders, involve discomfort and dysfunction in one or both of your temporomandiular joints -- the joints that help connect your jaw, or mandible, with your skull. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders affect about 5 percent to 12 percent of the American population. Certain foods may be helpful in treating your TMJ problem, but you should always review the risks and benefits of this treatment approach with your doctor first.

TMJ Problems

TMJ problems affect about 10 million people in the United States, notes the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, causing neck pain, ear pain, headaches, jaw muscle tenderness and facial pain. Other common symptoms associated with TMJ problems include clicking or popping noises when you open or close your mouth, an inability to fully open your mouth and pain in your affected area when you chew or yawn. Joint diseases and joint trauma are two of the most common causes of TMJ problems.

Dietary Approach

An effective dietary approach in treating your TMJ disorder may involve increased consumption of certain foods and reduced consumption of other foods. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that helpful foods for this health problem may include garlic, onions, fresh fruits, pineapple, whole-grain products, skinless chicken and turkey, whitefish, asparagus, eggs and lightly steamed vegetables. Consider avoiding junk food, candy, soft drinks, potato chips, pies and fast food.

A Useful Food

Garlic may be one of the most useful foods in treating your TMJ disorder. Garlic contains sulfur, notes Balch, which is required for the repair of damaged TMJ tissues, including bone, connective tissue and cartilage. Garlic has historically been used for many health purposes, notes nutritionist and biologist George Mateljan, author of "The World's Healthiest Foods." These uses include improving heart health, assisting with weight control and reducing inflammation in your body. Garlic has long been used for both medicinal and culinary purposes.

Considerations

TMJ problems may be caused by numerous factors and should always be managed by a skilled health-care professional, such as a medical doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor or naturopathic physician. To better understand the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder, and to understand the role of diet and nutrition in your recovery and care, consult a clinical nutrition specialist. Not all foods or dietary approaches historically used in treating this condition may have been studied using contemporary scientific research methods.