Did you know that nearly 2 trillion sticks of gum are produced every year? The average American chews about 300 pieces of gum yearly. Whether you chew to reduce hunger cravings, freshen your breath, or reduce stress, you wouldn’t expect it to make your jaw hurt. However, gum chewing can trigger TMJ symptoms. Here’s why you might want to think twice before popping another piece of gum into your mouth.

(more…)