If you struggle with pain in your jaw, head, or neck, TMJ might be the culprit. Fortunately, treatment from an orthodontist like Dr. Sogol in Everett can help. The abbreviation “TMJ” refers to the temporomandibular joint. But when most people use that term, they really mean “TMJD” (temporomandibular joint disorder). The TMJ controls the movement of your jaw. If it hurts, everyday things like talking and eating can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, orthodontics can offer a solution. Here’s how treatment from Align Choice Orthodontics helps with TMJ/TMJD.
Understanding TMJ
TMJD affects the joint connecting your jaw to your skull. This joint is essential for chewing, speaking, and yawning. As you probably know, pain in this area is no laughing matter! Let’s look closer at temporomandibular joint disorder and what we can do about it.
Definition of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
TMJD involves several different conditions that affect the hinge joint that controls your jaw. We want to keep the bones and muscles around this joint healthy. When this joint is not working correctly, you’ll notice pain, stiffness, and headaches. Do you have issues with chewing? Maybe you notice a clicking or popping sound when you move your jaw? If you experience these symptoms, it might be time to talk to Dr. Sogol at Align Choice Orthodontics.
Common Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life
Do you feel pain or stiffness around your ear? What about lockjaw? Is it hard for you to open and close your mouth without severe discomfort? Other symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder include tightness or pain in the neck and shoulders, misaligned teeth, facial swelling, and even tinnitus (ringing in your ears).
Causes of TMJ
How do people get TMJ/TMJD? Jaw injuries, like fractures or dislocations, can damage the joint. Arthritis can contribute to inflammation and pain in the TMJ. Bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding, often puts extra pressure on the joint. Stress can lead to jaw clenching and worsening TMJ symptoms. Lastly, structural issues like misaligned teeth can affect your temporomandibular joint.
Types of TMJ Disorders
There are three main kinds of TMJ disorders.
- Myofascial pain involves discomfort in the muscles controlling your jaw.
- Internal derangement refers to a displaced or dislocated jaw joint.
- Arthritis-related TMJ involves inflammation or swelling of the joint.
How Orthodontics Can Help
Our Align Choice Orthodontics can help relieve your TMJ. By addressing the root causes of TMJ, orthodontic treatments can improve jaw function and reduce pain.
Correcting Bite Misalignment
A misaligned bite (or “malocclusion”) puts extra pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Orthodontic appliances like braces or clear aligners can realign your teeth and jaw. By creating a more balanced bite, these treatments reduce the strain on your TMJ. Dr. Sogol’s expert care can help realign your jaw and, subsequently, your bite. A well-set jaw will make you much more comfortable and will make regular activities (like eating) a whole lot easier.
Reducing Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism)
Bruxism is also called chronic teeth grinding, and it’s a common cause of TMJ. Orthodontic solutions like custom-made mouth guards or occlusal splints can help. These devices protect your teeth from grinding and ease muscle tension in your jaw. By minimizing the impact of bruxism, orthodontics can alleviate TMJ symptoms and promote better jaw health.
Improving Jaw Position
Sometimes, TMJ issues arise from your jaw being out of its natural position. Orthodontic treatments, such as jaw repositioning appliances, can relocate your jaw into a healthier position. In severe cases, orthognathic surgery might be necessary to correct jaw structure. These interventions can significantly lessen your TMJ pain. Dr. Sogol and our team at Align Choice Orthodontics have the expertise to help deal with whatever you need.
Balancing Bite Forces
Imagine if your car always wanted to make left turns. Or your tires all wanted to turn in opposite directions. Now, what if something like that happened with your jaw or your teeth? Uneven bite forces can contribute to TMJ problems too. Orthodontists can adjust how your upper and lower teeth come together, ensuring an even distribution of bite pressure. Techniques like interproximal reduction, which involves slight reshaping of the teeth, can also help.
Preventing Future TMJ Problems
Early orthodontic intervention can stop TMJ issues before they start. For children and teens, guiding proper jaw growth and tooth alignment can prevent TMJ disorders. After treatment, retainers help maintain the new alignment. Retainers preserve the new bite you’ve worked so hard on. They reduce your risk of future TMJ problems.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for TMJ
Orthodontic treatment for TMJ offers multiple benefits that make your jaw feel better and work better. Here’s how it can help.
Pain Relief and Improved Function
Orthodontic treatment can significantly relieve TMJ pain by correcting misalignments and eliminating jaw strain. After getting treatment in our Everett clinic, you’ll be able to get back to your life without pain holding you back.
Enhanced Appearance of the Smile
Orthodontic treatment addresses TMJ issues and gives you a straighter, brighter, healthier smile. Straighter teeth look better and give your face more symmetry. After treatment, you’ll be happier with the way you look.
Long-Term Health Benefits
Addressing TMJ issues early can prevent more severe problems down the road. Orthodontic treatment promotes long-term jaw health by maintaining proper alignment and eliminating wear and tear on your joints. If you follow Dr. Sogol’s advice, you’ll enjoy the benefits of treatment for a long time.
TMJ Intervention at Align Choice Orthodontics
Don’t live life in pain. If you’re suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder, come see us at Align Choice Orthodontics right away. Dr. Sogol has the experience you need to be pain-free. Go here to schedule your free consultation in our Everett office.