Invisalign is much more than a cosmetic treatment. Not only can it straighten your teeth and enhance your smile, but it can also reduce your risk of a number of oral health problems. Is TMJ disorder one of those problems? Well, it really depends on a person’s unique circumstances. This blog post discusses what causes TMJ disorder and under what circumstances fixing TMJ with Invisalign might be possible.
What Causes TMD?
TMJ disorder, often called just TMD, is a complex condition that affects the TMJ (the joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the skull). It can be caused or exacerbated by a number of different problems, including trauma, muscular strain, and perhaps even stress. Sometimes, the cause is a mystery. In many cases, though, malocclusion (a bad bite) is to blame. When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together as they should, the TMJ has to work extra hard to help you chew and speak. That places stress on the surrounding muscles and can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including headaches, jaw pain, and more.
Invisalign and TMD
Invisalign is able to correct many cases of malocclusion. By shifting the teeth into their proper positions, it can help your bite to function better. It might even work alongside other accessories that aim to correct the position of the lower jaw. After you complete your course of treatment with Invisalign, it is entirely possible that your TMD symptoms will be less severe. They might even disappear altogether.
Of course, Invisalign isn’t suitable for every case of malocclusion or TMD. If your malocclusion is particularly severe, you might need a different type of orthodontic treatment or perhaps even surgery. If a bad bite is not to blame for your TMD, you might find that Invisalign does little to address your symptoms.
Getting Started with Treatment
If you are struggling with TMD, you can begin your quest for relief by visiting a dentist who is qualified to diagnose and treat your condition. After they evaluate your bite and the position of your teeth, they will be able to make a reasonable determination of whether Invisalign could provide you with a long-lasting solution.
If Invisalign is unlikely to work for your TMD, your dentist will may recommend a different type of TMJ therapy. For example, many people have found that Botox injections or a custom oral appliance is able to minimize or eliminate their symptoms.
TMD is a complex problem, and treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis. Invisalign is helpful for many people, but not for everyone. Your dentist will be able to provide you with a personalized treatment plan that aims to reduce your jaw pain and support your oral health.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page works hard at Capital Smiles to provide a wide array of advanced dental services, including Invisalign, Botox, and other forms of TMJ therapy. To learn more about our practice and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 518-374-0317.