TMJ disorder, sometimes referred to as TMD, is a serious jaw joint disorder that could lead to problems opening and closing your mouth. Often, the disorder is linked to misalignment and issues with the balance of your smile. In today’s blog, we’re looking at the causes of the disorder, answering common questions, and discussing your Fort Worth orthodontist’s approach to TMJ therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMD
Question: Why do we develop TMD?
Answer: The disorder develops when the jaw joints, which connect your jaw and skull and control the actions needed to eat and speak, undergo excessive strain. When TMD forms, this eventually makes opening and closing the mouth difficult, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. Possible causes of strain could include stress, injury to the face or jaw, tooth loss, bite imbalance, dental misalignment, and untreated teeth grinding.
Question: When should I see the dentist?
Answer: If you begin to experience the common warning signs of the disorder, we suggest seeing us for treatment as soon as possible. If you begin to encounter soreness or pain in your jaw or face, let us know. Other warning signs could include a popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, headaches, or toothaches and tooth sensitivity. Don’t ignore these warning signs, as untreated TMD could also make the onset of chronic teeth grinding (Bruxism) more likely potentially damaging your smile.
Question: What is TMJ therapy?
Answer: With TMJ therapy, your orthodontist will create and provide a custom-made oral appearance to help relieve strain on the jaw joints. Using digital iTero® technology, we will gather a series of detailed images and measurements of your smile in a matter of seconds. We use these images to create a 3D model of your smile and design an appliance that fits like a mouthguard. When worn at might, the device repositions the jaw to ease strain, and also protects teeth for further damage if you have bruxism.
Question: How do you correct misalignment?
Answer: Other times, correcting your smile’s alignment could treat TMJ disorder and restore your smile’s health. We have a number of options available, including cosmetic orthodontics. For those in need of braces, we can place brackets created from ceramic, which enables them to blend with the smile. Our team can also design and create a series of clear plastic aligners to reposition your teeth. If you have any questions about treating TMJ disorder or misalignment, then contact our team today.
Does Your Jaw Pop or Click?
Our team can identify the factors behind your TMD and offer customized solutions. To schedule your consultation and discuss TMJ therapy, please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.
