It’s hot outside and the summer days should be utilized indoors in the comfort of air conditioning or even better, in the cold waves of a pool. A swimming pool is there to offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience in the midst of a hot and stressful day, however it can cause avoidable pain to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) sufferers. What is the relationship between swimming and TMD?
Swimming Vs. Your Jaw
Swimming, albeit great exercise for your body and overall health, could cause issues for your jaw, especially for TMD sufferers. Your jaw overworks itself in the pool in a few different ways, from taking forceful breaths after coming up for air to biting down on a snorkel for an extended period of time. When your jaw muscles are irritated or inflamed, repeated use of it may make the pain worse. Find other forms of exercise or other ways of cooling off in the summertime.
Swimmer’s Ear
Otitis Externa, also known as Swimmer’s ear, is an infection of the outer ear canal and is often caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming. It creates a wet environment where bacteria and fungi grow.
Swimmer’s ear is related to jaw pain in two ways. The ear is adjacent to your Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and any pain or inflammation felt in your ear may affect the joint. Secondly, TMD is presented as ear pain and can be confused as just another ache when in reality, you could be suffering from TMD, and vice versa. Wear ear plugs to prevent water from getting in your ears.
The pool may be calling your name this summer but you may not want to answer. C&C Dentistry specializes in Neuromuscular Dentistry, a form of TMD treatment that provides a long-term and positive affect on your smile. Call C&C Dentistry to for more information on Neuromuscular Dentistry, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or to schedule an appointment.