Do you visit our office for complications with TMJ? If so, then you know it can be challenging to determine which foods may not be a good choice with your symptoms. With the warmer weather arriving, vacations being planned, and family events taking place, you may be wondering if there are any foods that we do not recommend during this time of year. Read on to learn our answer.
No Food Restrictions
We do not believe in giving food restrictions to our patients at any time of the year. You may have heard previously that a soft diet is recommended. We feel that you can eat any food, but you may have to chew it carefully and slowly. Chewing slowly has an impact on the muscles’ ability to replenish oxygen and helps the bones and muscles develop correctly. A diet solely consisting of soft foods encourages faster chewing but does not have the same effect on the bones and muscles.
When is a Soft Diet Recommended?
We may recommend a soft diet immediately after a flare-up or injury. We never want our patients to experience pain or discomfort; however, our goal is to have our patients eating normally as soon as possible. Luckily, if you choose to eat a soft diet for a short period of time, this doesn’t mean that you are restricted to a menu of smoothies, yogurt and pudding. While those are delicious choices, there are a number of other options that are also delicious and nutritious. We suggest things like:
- Fish
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- A burrito bowl with your favorite toppings
- Macaroni and cheese and other pasta dishes
- Watermelon, bananas, and other soft fruits
- Cottage cheese and string cheese
- Hummus with cucumbers
As always, if you have any issues with your TMJ symptoms, be sure to contact our office, and we will be glad to help. We are happy to provide sleep apnea and TMJ-related treatments to patients looking for relief in the Western New York area as well as Canada. Be sure to contact one of our two offices located in Buffalo, NY and Rochester, NY to schedule an appointment.
