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TMJ, a frequently used acronym for temporomandibular joint disorder, is one bodily condition that we often pay the least attention to. Pain related to TMJ is said to be caused by the dislocation of the cartilage in our jaws, wherein the lower jaw connected to our skull causes pressure and stretching to the surrounding sensory nerves.

A lot of factors contribute to the existence of the condition. When your family has hereditary connective tissue disorder, you are more likely to experience TMJ. Defective amounts of hyaluronic acid also contribute to the increased probability of developing TMJ. Hyaluronic acid is a component of the connective tissue responsible in cushioning and lubricating joints. Magnesium deficiency can be another factor as poor amounts of magnesium in the body cause muscles to tighten and defects in the connective tissues. More common causes of TMJ are overuse of the jaw including excessive chewing and talking, and overstretching of the jaw when yawning.

There are several ways to treat TMJ. Diet treatments have been proven to minimize chances of having TMJ disorder. One way is through cutting back on salycilates as salycilates block vitamin K that helps maintain proper bone density. Reducing wheat and dairy intake can also help. You can also try avoiding food and supplements rich in Vitamin C and iron, as well as sugar, yeast, and preservatives. You can go back to the recommended intake of the aforementioned vitamins and minerals once you have recovered from TMJ.

While there are vitamins and minerals that need to be avoided when diagnosed with TMJ, there are also food and supplements intake that need to be increased. Eating moderate amounts of saturated fat can be beneficial. Increasing the amount of zinc, iron, vitamin B12, organ meat (a good source of micronutrients), vegetables and beans, meat, and broth from animal parts also aid in balancing the needed nutrients to keep your bones and joints strong and in good condition.

TMJ exercises are also available to help alleviate the pain and to keep you from experiencing it. Exercises on total body alignment, yoga, and those that focus on the jaw help lessen the frequency and intensity of the pain that you feel.

More common approaches to treating TMJ include avoiding hard and chewy food like nuts and gum, learning relaxation techniques to help loosen the jaw, relaxing facial muscles throughout the day, drinking plenty of water, getting ample sleep, using anti-inflammatory medications, and maintaining good position of your temporomandibular joint - teeth slightly apart with the lips together.

Keep in mind that when you start to feel pain in your jaw and you suspect that you have TMJ, it is best to consult a doctor. Physicians are more than happy to give you sound advice on how to properly treat your TMJ condition.