Millions of people are affected by our Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), which leaves them with discomfort in their jaws, headaches, and even unable to chew and speak. It is a disorder that may affect one in the short term and long term. TMJ and orthodontics can be very closely related because the bite is a significant cause of TMJ dysfunction.
From braces and aligners to physical therapy and natural approaches, modern TMJ treatment is more comprehensive than ever. Here’s what you should know about how orthodontics and other therapies work together to address this common condition.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is the joint that links the lower jaw and skull. It provides you the ability to talk, chew, and open as well as close your mouth. In case this joint is misaligned or inflamed, the symptoms that occur are:
- Jaw clicking or popping
- Locking of the jaw or stiffness of the jaw
- Pain around the jaw or ears
- Often having headaches or soreness on the face
- Problem in biting or chewing
A number of conditions may initiate TMJ, such as arthritis, jaw /facial injury, bad posture, and unbalanced bite (malocclusion).
Orthodontics as a Key to TMJ Relief
Orthodontics cannot be called cosmetic since it has great importance in the treatment of TMJ. When misalignment of the teeth or jaw occurs, the pressure is not evenly applied to the temporomandibular joint. This eventually causes joint strain and continuous pain.
Orthodontic tools such as braces, aligners, etc. are able to:
- Refine the arrangement of the bite
- Take the load off the jaw joints
- Minimize habits such as clenching teeth or grinding them.
- Reduce clenching or grinding habits
- Recover normal action and mobility
TMJ and braces treatment is a common solution for patients whose jaw pain stems from bite issues, especially when diagnosed early.
Holistic Approaches to TMJ Care
Many individuals are coming forward to get TMJ holistic treatment to treat the cause rather than the symptoms only related to it, which include muscle tension and stress. The holistic strategies can comprise:
- Acupuncture
- Practices of stress reduction
- Anti-inflammatory diets
- Herbal supplements
Such natural therapies are normally used together with dental or orthodontic treatment to be able to have a full restoration process.
Advances in Laser and Physical Therapy
New treatment is shifting the paradigm of TMJ treatment. TMJ laser treatment is one of these options that involves the introduction of low-level laser energy into the affected part of the tongue to diminish the inflammation and increase the healing process.
Likewise, the physical therapy of TMJ is concerned with:
- Building up the muscles of the jaw
- Limbering up
- The release of tight tissues
- Improving body mechanics and posture
TMJ specialists and even physical therapists mostly encourage the use of such non-invasive procedures.
New and Alternative Options
In case you want to find the new TMJ treatment, consider such options as PRP (platelet-rich plasma), neuromuscular dentistry, or digital bite analysis. The objective of these advanced methods is to identify the cause and provide long-term relief.
Persons wishing to seek natural means of treatment of TMJ may want to visit:
- Exercises that involve the relaxation of the jaw muscles
- Anti-inflammatory essential oils
- Hot pack or cold packs
- Avoid chewy, hard foodstuffs
The approaches can provide good symptom management in combination with orthodontic or clinical care.
The Role of Chiropractic in TMJ Management
Jaw mechanics are subject to the influence of spinal misalignment. This is the reason why TMJ and chiropractic therapy are gaining popularity. A plan of chiropractic TMJ treatment can include mild manipulation of the spine, physical therapy of soft tissues, and ergonomics to relieve the jaw joint of excess pressure.
The method is particularly beneficial to patients with poor posture-related jaw problems or people who spend most of their time at the desk.
Finding a Specialist for TMJ Treatment
To be treated well, an individual should access the right provider first. A specialist in TMJ treatment is aware of the complexity of the jaw joint and can provide a package of dental, orthodontic, and physical therapy-based solutions.
Search for a TMJ treatment center that has an interdisciplinary team of professionals and access to the latest treatment methodologies. Beach Cities Dental Group can provide everything you need to support TMJ treatment and restoration, high-technology orthodontics, bite correction, and effective, natural pain management in a single facility.
Schedule Your Appointment
When you are experiencing TMJ pain, there is assistance out there. A personalized plan can be the difference maker, whether you want orthodontic correction, TMJ alternative treatment, or emerging treatments such as laser, as well as chiropractic care.
Book an appointment today with a TMJ specialist and begin your process of restoring a balance, pain-free jaw and a healthier smile.
FAQ
How to fix TMJ on one side?
Treatment depends on the cause but often includes orthodontic realignment, physical therapy, or muscle relaxation techniques targeted at the affected side.
Is TMJ lifelong?
TMJ symptoms can be chronic but are not necessarily permanent. With the right treatment, many people experience significant or complete relief.
What is the best treatment for TMJ right now
Orthodontics, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes are often the best treatments used together. New alternative treatment, such as TMJ laser treatment or neuromuscular therap,y works too.
Can braces cure TMJ?
Braces can correct bite misalignment, which may reduce or eliminate TMJ symptoms when bite issues are the primary cause.
What kind of doctor treats TMJ?
A TMJ treatment specialist—often a dentist with advanced training in jaw disorders—can diagnose and treat TMJ. Some cases also benefit from collaboration with physical therapists or chiropractors.
Does chiropractic care help TMJ?
Yes, especially if the issue is related to posture or spinal alignment. Many patients find relief through TMJ and chiropractic treatment plans.
Are there natural treatments for TMJ?
Yes. Gentle jaw exercises, anti-inflammatory foods, essential oils, and stress management are popular natural treatments for TMJ.
What is TMJ alternative treatment?
It includes non-conventional therapies like acupuncture, herbal remedies, massage therapy, and posture correction exercises used alongside or in place of traditional care.