How Braces Can Help with TMJ Disorder

Do you suffer from frequent headaches, migraines, jaw pain, or popping when you open and close your mouth? You could have TMJ disorder (also called “TMD”.) 

Your TMJ is the joint on either side of your mouth, where your mandible (lower jaw) attaches to your body. TMD causes your joint to function abnormally or causes pain when you chew. 

Tooth Misalignment Concerns

One of the contributing factors to TMJ disorder is a misaligned bite. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, it means your jaw has to move in irregular ways when it comes to chewing and biting into food. Over time, all of those tiny atypical movements start to strain the ligaments and muscles around (and inside) your TMJ. It can even cause your teeth to wear down irregularly. 

Orthodontic Treatment for TMD

Choosing to straighten your teeth with braces is a proactive way to manage TMD symptoms. It may also provide permanent relief of jaw pain, depending on what’s causing your TMJ disorder. 

It’s not uncommon for our Wantrina South dentists to recommend braces along with bite splints or injectables to treat TMJ pain. 

As with any traditional orthodontic patient, the length of your treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis. Most people wear braces for around 12-18 months, but complex cases can take longer to treat. 

When your teeth are brought into a healthy occlusion (biting relationship,) it allows your TMJ to function as nature intended. As a result, the joint isn’t strained thousands of times per day.

TMJ Exams in Wantrina South

Do you suspect that you have TMJ disorder? Book an exam and TMD screening at Studfield Dental group today. During your visit we’ll evaluate your joints and bite to determine the cause of your pain and limited range of motion.