If you are experiencing discomfort in your jaw, you may have TMD. Treatment for TMD can include braces to correct alignment issues that may be causing the problem. To find out if braces are the right treatment for you, contact us today at (425) 948-1875.
TMD Symptoms
TMD is short for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. It is a condition that causes pain in the jaw area. The symptoms of TMD can include:
- Pain in the jaw, face, or neck
- Clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Pain when you yawn or open your mouth wide
What Causes TMD?
There are many possible causes of TMD, but the most common cause is the misalignment of the teeth or jaws. This misalignment can happen due to an injury, teeth grinding (bruxism), or arthritis. If you have misaligned teeth, it can stress the muscles and joints in your jaw, leading to pain.
TMD Treatment With Braces
If you have misaligned teeth, braces can help to align them correctly. This reliable device can take the stress off the muscles and joints in your jaw, which can help relieve pain. Sometimes, your orthodontist may also recommend wearing a splint or night guard to protect your teeth from grinding at night.
If you think you may have TMD problems, it is important to see an orthodontist or dentist for an evaluation. Balance Epigenetic Orthodontics will be able to determine if your symptoms are due to misaligned teeth or another cause. If you have misaligned teeth, we can develop a treatment plan to correct the problem and relieve your pain. Contact us today at (425) 948-1875.
Are There Special TMD Braces?
There are no special braces for TMD, but your orthodontist can create a custom treatment plan to address your specific needs. In some cases, they may recommend using clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces. This can be a good option if you are concerned about the appearance of braces.
If you have TMD, getting treatment as soon as possible is important. Correcting the alignment of your teeth can relieve pain and prevent further damage to your jaw. If you think you may have TMD, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist today.
Tips for Reducing Discomfort
There are a few things you can do to help reduce pain and discomfort while wearing braces for TMD treatment:
- Apply a cold compress to your jaw for 20 minutes to help reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.
- Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods that could damage your braces or irritate your jaw.
- Gently massage your jaw muscles with your fingers to help reduce tension and pain.
Contact Us
If you’re interested in receiving treatment for your TMD, several different options are available to you. Contact us today at (425) 948-1875 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Buck.
