If you are suffering from TMJ pain, you are certainly not alone. The condition that causes this pain has a prevalence of between 5% and 12%. Fortunately, your orthodontist can help you manage pain resulting from temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder. Here is how your orthodontist can help.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint is used a lot in the human body. This joint is located in the area just proximal to your ears. It is the joint that links jaws to the sides of your head. Apart from that, this joint is also connected to several facial muscles and nerves. This joint makes it possible for you to speak since it is responsible for sliding and rotating your mouth. It also plays a vital role in chewing and yawning. There are several conditions that are linked to this joint that can lead to a lot of pain and discomfort.

TMJ Pain from Misaligned Teeth

Braces have been used to address many cases of TMJ pain. They are quite common and effective as a treatment option. Your orthodontist can recommend braces, especially if your pain is being caused by issues with your bite. The solution then would be to straighten your teeth and align your jaws. This can be done with braces. Your orthodontist can use braces to adjust how your teeth are aligned relative to each other. This will effectively do away with TMJ pain.

TMJ Pain from Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

Braces can also be used in cases where the TMJ pain is being caused by teeth grinding or jaw clenching. In most instances, jaw clenching and teeth grinding are caused by misaligned teeth. Even if you have straight rows of teeth, it can still be possible to have jaw alignment issues. Braces will effectively solve this problem too. It is important to also get information about the maintenance of braces from your doctor about braces and TMJ pain, especially how to maintain your braces.

Some cases of TMJ pain can be solved by braces, and some cannot. That’s why you must book an appointment with a professional who will help diagnose the problem and see where the TMJ pain is coming from. If the pain can be fixed by orthodontic means, then you can get braces.