Quick Answer: Orthodontic treatment can sometimes help relieve TMJ symptoms. Misaligned teeth can strain the jaw and worsen existing TMJ disorders. Orthodontic treatment restores proper alignment and reduces muscle tension.
If you suffer from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, you already know how much it can impact your quality of life. You may have headaches, facial pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms, along with a jaw ache. As you search for TMJ relief, our team at Hass Family Orthodontics offers a solution you may not have considered: orthodontic treatment.
How Orthodontic Treatment Helps With TMJ Symptoms
Orthodontic appliances like braces and clear aligners gradually move teeth into more favorable positions. When teeth are well aligned, they meet naturally and distribute chewing force evenly. This intervention may reduce discomfort and take pressure off the jaw joints.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge that connects the jawbone and the skull. It provides a full range of motion to help you chew and speak. The temporomandibular joint is considered one of the most complex in the human body. This complexity means that multiple factors can contribute to its dysfunction.
Orthodontic issues are not typically considered a root cause of TMJ disorder, but they can contribute to your discomfort. Common causes of TMJ include:
- Jaw injury, such as those sustained in sports or accidents
- Arthritis
- Stress and anxiety causing muscle tension
- Disc problems in the joint
- Overuse of jaw ligaments due to personal habits like gum chewing or nail biting
Factors Worsening TMJ Symptoms
Orthodontic Issues
When your teeth don't meet properly, you may experience increased strain on the temporomandibular joints. Uneven bite forces reduce wear on the muscles around the temporomandibular joint and contribute to painful symptoms.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Whether chronic teeth grinding is a root cause of TMJ is unclear; the habit can worsen TMJ disorders. Grinding the teeth, whether at night or during the day, contributes to overuse of the jaw muscles and causes tension that leads to pain. It can also damage tooth enamel and restorations like crowns and fillings.
Discover How Orthodontic Treatment May Help With Your TMJ Disorder
If you have TMJ disorder and misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment may help reduce your discomfort. We would be glad to meet you and explain your options. Please call us at your earliest convenience to schedule a consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
If you have yet to be diagnosed with TMJ, you may be surprised to learn these symptoms are linked to the disorder.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw tenderness or pain
- Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth, when accompanied by pain (some sounds may be normal)
- Difficulty moving the jaw
- Headaches
- Myofascial pain
- Ear pain
Do I have to get braces to help with my TMJ symptoms, or can I get clear aligners instead?
We will discuss treatment options at your consultation. In general, either braces or clear aligners can help to move teeth into proper positions, but the choice depends on several factors, including your preferences. Braces are excellent for patients who need either mild or comprehensive correction, while clear aligners can perfect and refine your smile.
How long does orthodontic treatment take for TMJ disorders?
Treatment length varies by patient and the degree of malocclusion present. Adults tend to take longer to treat because their jawbone and roots have less plasticity than adolescents'. You may expect treatment to take 12 to 24 months, depending on how many teeth need movement and the complexity of your case. Every patient is different, and your treatment may be shorter or longer.
What is the connection between stress and TMJ?
Researchers link feelings of stress and anxiety to a higher chance of developing a TMJ disorder. When you feel worried or nervous, you may subconsciously clench your teeth and jaw. Over time, tension rises, and your jaw muscles and joints suffer from overuse.
Stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, exercise, and talk therapy help reduce symptoms for many of our patients.
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we treat patients of all ages. We work to balance your smile and help you feel more comfortable every day. If you have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment and TMJ disorders, contact us to schedule an appointment today!