Braces aren’t just for straightening teeth. If you’re dealing with jaw pain, clicking when you chew, or frequent headaches, you might be wondering if orthodontic treatment could help. TMJ issues can stem from a variety of causes, but in some cases, the way your teeth align plays a role.
Dr. Timock and Dr. Mioduski at Timock Family Orthodontics in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado Orthodontics in Windsor work with patients experiencing jaw discomfort to determine whether braces could be part of an effective treatment plan. While orthodontics isn’t a fix for every case of TMJ disorder, it can make a difference when bite alignment is contributing to the problem.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is what allows your jaw to open, close, and move from side to side. You use it constantly—to eat, talk, and even yawn. When something isn’t working properly with this joint, it can lead to discomfort, clicking sounds, or even difficulty moving your jaw. This condition is known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
TMD can develop for many reasons, and symptoms can range from mild irritation to chronic pain. If your jaw feels sore, stiff, or doesn’t seem to move the way it should, it’s worth looking into the cause.
Could Your Bite Be Making TMJ Worse?
Several factors contribute to TMJ issues, including:
- Bite misalignment: When teeth don’t fit together correctly, the jaw has to shift to compensate.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: Constant tension in the jaw muscles can strain the joint.
- Past injuries: A hit to the jaw, even years ago, can lead to joint problems.
- Arthritis: Joint inflammation can cause stiffness and discomfort.
- Chronic tension: Stress can lead to jaw clenching, even if you’re not aware of it.
If misalignment is part of the problem, orthodontic treatment could help relieve some of the strain on your jaw.
Signs You Might Have TMJ Issues
Not everyone with TMJ discomfort has TMD, but certain symptoms could be a sign that your jaw isn’t functioning as it should:
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
- Jaw pain or tightness
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Ear pain or ringing
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty chewing
- A jaw that locks or feels stuck
If any of these symptoms are persistent, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice.
How Braces Can Help With TMJ
If you are struggling with TMJ, braces can help in various ways:
Correct Bite Alignment
When teeth don’t align properly, the jaw muscles have to work harder to bring them together. Over time, this extra effort can lead to discomfort. Braces guide teeth into a more balanced position, helping to reduce tension on the jaw joint.
Relieve Muscle Tension
A misaligned bite doesn’t just affect your teeth. The muscles responsible for jaw movement can become overworked, leading to soreness and fatigue. By improving alignment, braces help distribute pressure more evenly, allowing the jaw to function more comfortably.
Reduce Teeth Grinding
Braces can help correct bite issues that contribute to grinding and clenching, both of which put extra strain on the TMJ. For some patients, better alignment leads to a more relaxed jaw position, reducing the urge to grind teeth at night.
Support Long-Term Jaw Health
The way your teeth fit together affects more than just your smile. A properly aligned bite provides better long-term support for the jaw joint, helping to reduce unnecessary stress and wear over time.
Invisalign or Braces?
Traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign can help correct alignment issues, but the right option depends on the complexity of your case.
Invisalign
- Removable, clear aligners
- Effective for many types of misalignment
- Best for mild to moderate cases
Metal or Clear Braces
- More control over complex bite issues
- Often recommended for severe misalignment
- Can provide more stability for jaw positioning
Dr. Timock and Dr. Mioduski will determine the best approach based on your specific needs.
Other Ways to Manage TMJ Discomfort
Braces can be one piece of the puzzle, but there are other ways to relieve TMJ pain:
- Jaw relaxation exercises: Gentle stretches and massages can ease tension.
- Nightguards: Custom guards can reduce grinding and clenching.
- Heat and cold therapy: Warm compresses relax muscles, while cold packs help with inflammation.
- Soft foods: Avoiding hard or chewy foods can give your jaw a break.
- Stress management: Deep breathing or mindfulness can help reduce tension.
Is Orthodontic Treatment the Right Choice?
Getting braces isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for every TMJ case, but if misalignment is contributing to your discomfort, they could help. A consultation with an experienced orthodontist is the best way to determine if orthodontic treatment is right for you.
Our expert teams in Fort Collins and Windsor will provide expert evaluations to help patients understand their options. If TMJ discomfort is affecting your daily life, schedule your free consultation with Dr. Timock and Dr. Mioduski to explore whether orthodontic treatment could be part of your solution.