TMJ disorders are conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. These disorders usually result from teeth grinding, jaw misalignment, stress, and arthritis. All these factors contribute to the development of TMJ disorders. The treatment for TMJ in Los Gatos includes traditional braces, clear aligners, functional appliances, and retainers.
You should consult with a dentist in Los Gatos to decide which treatment suits your condition the most. Only a dentist will be able to diagnose your condition properly and choose the right treatment method to resolve the condition effectively and quickly.
Here are different ways orthodontic treatments can help you with TMJ disorders.
- Realign the jaw
Jaw misalignment is most often the main cause of TMJ disorders. This can cause various dental problems, including TMJ disorders and difficulty in eating, speaking, and breathing. Sometimes teeth might even dig into your lips, gums, or cheeks if misalignment is severe enough.
Orthodontic treatments help with the realignment of your jaw. These treatments will help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorders by correcting the alignment of your teeth and reducing the stress on the teeth.
- Improve bite alignment
Bite alignment can have a major impact on your dental health. A proper bite alignment is essential to distribute the biting force evenly onto your teeth. You may have an increased risk for gingivitis, decay, and other dental conditions if you have an improper bite alignment. It might even affect your facial symmetry and increase the risk of cavities drastically.
Orthodontic treatments like braces and aligners help in improving bite alignment and reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay. An improved bite alignment also makes brushing and flossing easy and eases the pain caused by TMJ disorders. So, it is always best to consult with a dentist at the earliest if you identify any signs of improper bite alignment.
- Address teeth grinding
Teeth grinding is also called Bruxism, and it occurs when an individual clenches or grinds their teeth when not actually chewing on anything. Many factors can contribute to teeth grinding, including stress, improper bite alignment, and certain neurological conditions.
A dentist can help you deal with teeth grinding using orthodontic treatments such as aligners and braces. You can easily achieve properly aligned teeth with treatment using braces and aligners. This will help you alleviate the problems associated with teeth grinding.
