As orthodontists, we don’t just correct misalignment. We can also address the factors behind your orofacial pain, such as headaches or jaw pain. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist will explain how we use TMJ therapy to offer a comfortable and noninvasive solution to your headaches and jaw pain.
The Factors Behind Your TMD
TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, is a disorder that develops when the temporomandibular joints become too strained. These joints connect your jaw and skull and are responsible for the movements necessary to eat and speak. Strain on them could mean trouble opening and closing your mouth, as well as a host of painful symptoms and oral health complications. Common factors include issues that upset bite balance, such as misalignment, tooth loss, injury to the face or jaw, issues with previous restoration placement, untreated teeth grinding, and more. As part of your treatment, we will identify the factors behind your discomfort!
Symptoms and Dangers
People with the disorder often suffer from frequent headaches or migraines. Other symptoms include a popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, jaw pain, facial aches, and even pain in the neck and shoulders. If the strain causes you to begin grinding your teeth frequently, known as bruxism, then your teeth could begin to ache and feel sensitive, and could even become damaged. To avoid worsening pain and complications, you should seek treatment from our team.
Creating Your Custom Solution
For some, we may suggest correcting misalignment using tooth-colored brackets to minimize the appearance of braces, or with our clear Invisalign® aligners. As we fix the position of your teeth, this could ease pressure on the jaw joints and offer relief, as well as a straighter smile. However, for some we may suggest oral appliance therapy to ease strain and provide relief. With the iTero® digital scanning system, our team will take detailed images of your entire smile and use them in a dental lab setting to design an oral appliance. The device will fit like mouthguard and be worn as you sleep at night. Over time, this repositions the jaw to ease strain and prevent further symptoms. You enjoy a comfortable and noninvasive solution to your TMD-related discomfort. If you have any questions about these potential solutions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation for an exam, then contact our team today to learn more.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TMJ THERAPY?
We want to make sure you avoid orofacial pain and other complications with oral appliance therapy. To learn about improving the state of your jaw joints, 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.
