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As if menopause didn’t already bring enough changes, many women are surprised to discover that the hormonal rollercoaster doesn’t just impact reproductive health—it can also wreak havoc on your jaw. Research shows that fluctuating estrogen levels during menopause can contribute to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, which can cause jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty chewing or speaking, and even headaches or facial pain. These symptoms are often overlooked or dismissed, yet they can seriously affect your daily life.

In this episode, I’m joined by none other than my sister, Dr. Priya Mistry, a TMJ specialist with years of experience helping patients find relief from chronic pain. Dr. Mistry walks us through TMJ disorders, explaining how they are linked to menopause and sleep apnea. She shares the latest in TMJ treatment options, including how dentists can help with diagnosis and care, and how women can take charge of their jaw health during this stage of life.

References

Ep. 14: How to Sleep Better with Dr. Andrea Matsumura

Connect with Dr. Priya Mistry

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“Unclenched” Podcast

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Eastside Menopause & Metabolism

Audio Stamps

02:10 - What TMJ is, common symptoms (beyond jaw clicking), and why headaches are often overlooked.

05:08 - How menopause-related hormonal shifts contribute to TMJ dysfunction and symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and sleep apnea.

12:30 - The growing recognition of the connection between TMJ and sleep apnea, despite limited research on TMJ and menopause.

14:42 - Hidden TMJ symptoms, particularly during menopause, and the jaw-pelvic floor connection, highlighting the value of whole-body care.

20:21 - The influence of hormone changes (including low testosterone and gender-affirming hormone therapy) on TMJ issues.

21:53 - How TMJ pain impacts brain fog and fatigue, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to treatment.

27:42 - Women with autoimmune disorders often face more severe TMJ, with treatment taking over a year in some cases.

29:23 - Dr. Mistry's patient-centered treatment approach and the role of thorough patient history in managing TMJ.

34:28 - At-home TMJ relief tips and the benefits of disclusion time reduction (DTR) therapy for bite adjustments and pain relief.

38:14 - Dr. Mistry recommends seeing a TMJ dentist or ENT for facial pain and exploring treatment options beyond Botox.

Thanks for listening. Find more info about Reset Recharge on the website or Instagram.