Do you often suffer from chronic headaches, or possibly pain or clicking in your jaw? If so, then your smile may be experiencing the onset of TMJ disorder, also known as TMD. Fortunately, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist is ready to help treat the issue with cosmetic orthodontics or a custom oral appliance.
The Causes of TMD
TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joints undergo excessive amounts of stress. These joints connect your jaw and skull, and are responsible for the actions needed to eat and speak. Over time, TMD could mean difficulty fully opening and closing your jaw, along with a series of painful symptoms. Causes of the strain vary, but are often linked to bite imbalance and dental misalignment. Other causes include teeth grinding, injury to the face or jaw, high levels of stress, and issues with the growth and development of the jaw or oral structures.
Warning Signs
How do you know if you need treatment? Common warning signs include a popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, as well as headaches, migraines, jaw pain, and facial pain. You could also experience aches in the neck and shoulders, and if you grind your teeth, tooth sensitivity and toothaches. If you begin to experience one or more of these potential symptoms, then please see us right away.
Treating with Orthodontics
With orthodontics, we correct the position of the teeth, which not only improves smile beauty, but also alleviates strain and provides better balance in your bite. We can use retainers, teeth spacers, braces, and even clear Invisalign® aligners to help kids, teens, and adults all enjoy an even and healthy smile. In fact, for those wearing braces, we can use tooth-colored brackets to limit the visibility of these metal orthodontics!
Treatment with an Oral Appliance
However, the most common treatment option is oral appliance therapy. Our team will use iTero® digital scanning technology to take detailed images of your smile, combined them to create a 3D model. The model enables us to design and create your appliance in as dental lab setting. The appliance will look and fit like a mouthguard, and helps ease pressure on your joints by repositioning the jaw. The device then eases discomfort and improves your oral health. If you have any questions about addressing TMJ disorder, or about any of our cosmetic orthodontic options, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TMJ THERAPY?
Our team is ready to help treat issues like TMD, and easing strain on your jaw joints. To learn more about restoring the balance of your bite, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Azle, Saginaw, and all surrounding communities.
