{"id":353,"date":"2026-04-20T20:31:36","date_gmt":"2026-04-20T20:31:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exceptionaldentistry.com\/blog\/?p=353"},"modified":"2026-04-27T20:35:04","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T20:35:04","slug":"tmd-terror-does-chewing-gum-make-jaw-pain-worse","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exceptionaldentistry.com\/blog\/2026\/04\/20\/tmd-terror-does-chewing-gum-make-jaw-pain-worse\/","title":{"rendered":"TMD Terror: Does Chewing Gum Make Jaw Pain Worse?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Nose-to-chin<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Did you know that sources report that over 374 billion pieces of gum are sold annually, and that an estimated 173 million U.S. Americans chew these products? Whether you enjoy a minty flavor to freshen your breath or use nicotine products to quit your smoking habit, you\u2019re not alone if you enjoy chewing gum regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But if you\u2019ve also noticed that your jaw feels sore or stiff in the morning, your habit might be contributing to a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. Continue reading to learn more about how chewing gum might affect your jaw health so you can avoid potential problems<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What is TMD?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your jaw connects to the base of your skull via two sliding-disc joints, known as the TMJ (temporomandibular joints), which are located just below your ears on each side of your face. When they\u2019re healthy, they provide your mouth with a full range of motion; you can open and close your jaw, slide it front to back, or shift it front side to side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if these joints become overworked or sustain too much pressure, it can trigger a painful inflammation that can cause discomfort and limit your range of motion. This condition, commonly known as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder), often presents with the following symptoms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n