OUR BLOG

Can Braces Help with TMJ?

Jaw pain, stiffness, headaches and popping noises all characterize disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the jaw joint just in front of the ears. While our West Seattle and Burien orthodontist is best known for helping people achieve beautiful healthy smiles, we also help with other issues such as TMJ disorders. Orthodontics is one of the best ways to treat this issue.

What Is a TMJ Disorder?

The TMJ is a surprisingly complex joint and connects to many muscles and nerves in your face. Problems can be caused by misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. An improper bite can cause strain on the TMJ, resulting in pain that radiates throughout the face. This disorder can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding, jaw injuries and arthritis.

Using Braces as Treatment

In many cases, TMJ disorders can be effectively treated by using braces or other orthodontic treatments to realign the bite. The braces move the teeth back into their proper position. If necessary, additional hardware can be used to improve the jaw’s alignment. As the teeth and bite line up more properly, the TMJ disorder will gradually diminish.

Some other treatments include stress reduction and muscle stimulation to reduce tension on the joint, another common cause of the issue. In serious cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the joint.

Learn More at Peralta Orthodontics

Visit our premier orthodontic practice in West Seattle or Burien for a free consultation if you’re in pain from TMJ. Our experienced team is ready to help you with your smile, TMJ pain, or any other orthodontic problem you may be struggling with. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your treatment options!