When our jaw joints become strained, this upsets bite balance and could led to trouble opening and closing your mouth. In order to treat this disorder and return function and comfort to your smile, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist may recommend a custom-made oral appliance. Find out more about TMJ therapy in today’s blog.
TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, occurs when our jaw joints undergo excess strain. Known as the temporomandibular joints, these control the actions needed to eat and speak properly. Pressure could mean the onset of TMD and eventually, difficulties opening and closing your mouth. Factors behind this pressure could include tooth loss, misalignment, poor bite balance, tooth loss, and teeth grinding. As part of your diagnosis, we will look at the wear and friction on your teeth, and peer beneath the skin and gums to see the jaw joints and oral structures, providing an accurate diagnosis and spotting the warning signs of TMJ-related dysfunction.
Creating Your Appliance
To restore balance and ease pressure, we may suggest an oral appliance. We create one after taking detailed digital scans of your smile using the iTero® system. No need to bite own on molds filled with sticky material, instead we create aligners and appliances with greater precision and accuracy, employing digital technology. We combine the images to create a 3D model of the smile, crafting a mouthguard-like device that is worn at night as you sleep. The device repositions the jaw joints to ease pressure and prevent discomfort. We can also use this device to prevent further damage if you grind your teeth as well. Other possible treatments for TMD include correcting misalignment with orthodontics, such as braces with tooth-colored brackets and Invisalign® clear aligners.
Warning Signs to Watch For
When should you contact our team for treatment? Warning signs vary, but often includes persistent headaches, jaw pain, a popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, or aches in the neck and shoulders. If you begin to experience persistent discomfort in and around your face and jaw, let us know. With a thorough diagnosis, we can identify the presence of trouble and recommend the most appropriate treatment option. If you have any questions, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About TMD?
We would like to help patients with TMD-related dysfunction enjoy a healthier smile and avoid serious complications, such as damaged, decayed, or even lost teeth. To schedule your consultation and discuss our oral appliances, or learn more about our cosmetic orthodontic treatment options, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in White Settlement, North Fort Worth, and all surrounding communities.
