Individuals that need to undergo teeth straightening or bite correction can also suffer from disorders, such as TMJ, making their treatment from an orthodontist more involved or risky. With that being said, let us take a look at what is involved in TMJ orthodontics.
Things to know about TMJ orthodontics
Outlined below are a few questions and answers about TMJ orthodontics. Having an understanding of this information can be quite helpful when suffering from a TMJ disorder.
What can an orthodontist do for TMJ?
Orthodontists can do just as much for sufferers of TMJ disorders as any other dental professional, if not more. Generally speaking, TMJ orthodontics involves a treatment plan that focuses on the relationship between the jaw muscles, oral cavity, and the surrounding joints. An orthodontist’s approach is one that ensures that all of these parts are considered as they all coincide.
When is an orthodontist's help necessary?
An orthodontist’s help is not the last resort. It may be surprising but a lot of sufferers of TMJ disorders actually visit an orthodontist first! If the TMJ disorder is quite severe, it may be recommended to go straight to an orthodontist. However, if the condition is minor and does not result in extreme symptoms upfront, a general Orthodontics may be an appropriate place to start.
Is TMJ curable?
TMJ disorders can be curable with the right treatment. When treated in an orthodontic fashion, the likelihood that the condition will be managed and cured is a lot higher. However, it also depends heavily on each sufferer because there are a lot of factors, such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and how well the body responds to the actual treatment.
What makes TMJ orthodontic treatment different?
TMJ orthodontic treatment is different than the traditional route as it involves a focus on the actual bite within the oral cavity. The orthodontist will make a determination to figure out the best way for the jaw to fit with the rest of the facial muscles, specifically as it pertains to the way the upper and lower arches meet up.
Find out more
When suffering from a TMJ disorder, treatment is necessary as the long-term results can be detrimental to the health of the mouth, teeth, and jaw. With the help of an orthodontist, sufferers can undergo an evaluation in order to get started on the right path towards treatment. In the case of TMJ orthodontics, treatment may involve splints as this focuses a lot more on the actual bite. To learn more about TMJ or how an orthodontist may help, reach out today so that we can help you.