Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, affecting your daily life. If you struggle with TMJ discomfort, you might wonder if orthodontic treatment—like braces or clear aligners—can provide relief. In many cases, correcting misaligned teeth and jaw issues can help alleviate TMJ symptoms. Here’s how braces and aligners may improve jaw function and reduce pain.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to speak, chew, and move your jaw. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD), which may cause:
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Jaw pain or stiffness
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Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
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Frequent headaches or earaches
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Difficulty chewing or biting down properly
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Jaw locking or limited movement
TMJ disorders can be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), misalignment (malocclusion), stress, or injury.
How Braces or Aligners Can Help with TMJ Pain
1. Correcting Bite Issues
A misaligned bite (malocclusion) can place excessive strain on the TMJ, leading to discomfort. Braces or clear aligners gradually shift your teeth into a more balanced position, which can help relieve jaw tension and improve function.
Common bite problems that contribute to TMJ pain include:
✔ Overbites – The upper teeth overlap too much, putting pressure on the jaw.
✔ Underbites – The lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth, affecting jaw alignment.
✔ Crossbites – Some upper teeth sit behind lower teeth, leading to uneven pressure on the jaw.
✔ Open bites – The upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, causing strain on the TMJ.
2. Reducing Teeth Grinding & Clenching
Many people with TMJ disorders grind or clench their teeth, often without realizing it. This habit can wear down the enamel and put stress on the jaw joint. Orthodontic treatment can help by aligning the teeth properly, which reduces the likelihood of grinding and prevents further TMJ irritation.
3. Improving Jaw Alignment
In some cases, a misaligned jaw can cause TMJ pain. Orthodontic treatment may help reposition the jaw into a more natural, comfortable position, reducing strain and allowing for smoother movement.
4. Preventing Further Joint Damage
If left untreated, TMJ disorders can worsen over time, leading to more pain and difficulty with jaw movement. Straightening your teeth and correcting your bite with braces or aligners may help prevent long-term damage to the TMJ.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Best for TMJ Treatment?
Both braces and clear aligners can help address TMJ issues, but the best option depends on the severity of your case:
🔹 Braces – Ideal for moderate to severe bite issues that require significant correction. Braces provide strong, consistent pressure to realign the teeth and jaw.
🔹 Clear Aligners – Suitable for mild to moderate cases. Aligners offer a more discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth while providing a protective barrier against teeth grinding.
Your orthodontist will assess your bite and jaw alignment to determine which treatment is best for you.
Other TMJ Treatment Options
In addition to braces or aligners, other treatments can help manage TMJ pain, including:
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Nightguards – Custom-made oral appliances that prevent teeth grinding.
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Physical therapy – Jaw exercises and stretches to relieve tension.
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Lifestyle changes – Stress management, avoiding chewy foods, and applying heat/cold therapy.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for Your TMJ Pain?
If you experience chronic jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing, orthodontic treatment might help. At Carter Orthodontics, we specialize in customized braces and clear aligner treatments to improve your bite, relieve TMJ discomfort, and enhance your smile.
💲 Treatment Cost & Savings
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Braces or aligner treatment: Starting at $4,695
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Save up to $1,000 with a Forever Aligned Club Membership ($79)
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Additional savings: Dental insurance may cover $1,000–$3,000 depending on your plan
📅 Schedule a consultation today to find out if orthodontic treatment can help you find relief from TMJ pain!
Photo by Gustavo Fring
