The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are two of the most complex and used joints in your body. You use your TMJs hundreds of times daily to speak, eat, swallow, breathe, and make infinite facial expressions. Efficient and painless sliding and hinging motions are essential to our health and wellness. However, its complex anatomy and frequent use make the TMJ susceptible to dysfunction, so can braces fix TMJ? Find out this and how this problem can create pain and other symptoms hindering work, school, recreation, nutrition, and relationships.
To learn more about invisible braces, schedule an appointment at Trident Dental for a comprehensive oral examination and braces evaluation.
What Are The Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
As many as one-third of adults report having one or more TMJ dysfunction symptoms. Although most cases resolve without treatment, symptoms can become so severe or chronic that professional intervention becomes necessary. In addition, diagnosis can often be difficult since the symptoms mimic those caused by other conditions. For example, an abscessed tooth can cause jaw pain that may closely resemble the pain caused by your TMJ. The common symptoms that TMJ may cause include:
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Joint noises such as popping or clicking.
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Joint locking open or closed.
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Joint stiffness and reduced range of motion.
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Pain in chewing muscles.
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Headaches.
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Earaches.
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Tinnitus.
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Neck or shoulder pain.
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Change in the bite of your teeth.
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ symptoms can begin without an apparent cause. However, it is believed that several factors may cause or contribute to TMJ disorder, such as:
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Trauma to the face or jaw.
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Bruxism or teeth grinding.
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Stress.
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Arthritis.
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Habits such as biting on objects other than food, such as fingernails.
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Dislocation of the joint’s disc.
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Jaws and teeth not fitting together correctly.
Can Braces Fix TMJ?
If your teeth and jaws do not fit together properly, you are at increased risk of problems such as premature wear on teeth, tooth decay, inability to thoroughly chew food, facial distortions, and TMJ disorder. Some minor problems with your bite can be corrected with restorative dental treatment, such as crowns or bridges.
Braces may be necessary to have your jaw and teeth fit together properly if you have a significant problem. For years this meant wearing traditional metal braces, brackets, and wires. However, in recent years invisible braces such as ClearCorrect have become a popular choice to reposition teeth into more favorable positions.
What Are Invisible Braces?
As the name implies, invisible braces provide an orthodontic solution that overcomes the less desirable appearance caused by traditional metal braces. In addition to the esthetic advantage, invisible braces offer other advantages, such as:
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Comfortable plastic aligners that do not cause mouth sores.
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No change in diet because you can remove the aligners while eating.
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Easier oral hygiene with usual brushing and flossing.
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Ability to remove the aligners for sports, special events, or other activities.
Schedule Appointment
Contact us at Trident Dental to learn how we can help you with any questions or problems you might have about braces and jaw pain. We provide comprehensive dental services to prevent and treat TMJ before it damages your teeth and gums.