TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT/MUSCLE DYSFUNCTION

We have begun to treat your temporomandibular joint/muscle dysfunction. Our success will depend in large part upon the way you treat the injured areas. The following instructions will greatly enhance the correction and healing of this area.

1. For the next few months be sure to cut all foods into small bite-sized pieces. Try to avoid opening your mouth any wider than the thickness of your thumb.
2. Do not eat hard crusts of bread, tough meat, raw vegetables or any other food that will require prolonged chewing.
3. Avoid using chewing gum during this period of treatment.
4. Be sure not to protrude your jaw, as you must do when biting off a piece of thread.
5. Do not bite any food with your front teeth.
6. If you wear lipstick, do not bring your jaw forward when applying it.
7. Avoid protruding your jaw during any other activities: for example, smoking, conversation, etc.
8. Make every effort not to strain your joint ligaments unnecessarily.
9. Should you find yourself clenching your teeth together, try to remember to keep your "lips together and your teeth apart".
10. Try to sleep on your back. Avoid sleeping on your jaw.