Has your jaw been clicking, popping, or aching? You may be suffering the effects of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This can cause a lot of discomfort and affect everyday activities like chewing and speaking. As patients search for relief from TMJ, they begin to wonder what treatments may have an effect. Could Invisalign, known for its ability to straighten teeth, also provide relief for TMJ symptoms? Continue reading to find out.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. Symptoms may include jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. While TMJ disorder can have many causes, misaligned teeth and jaw alignment are among the most common.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear aligners that gradually shift the teeth into desired positions. These aligners are removable and replaced approximately every one to two weeks as your tooth alignment shifts. Invisalign is known for its effectiveness in correcting mild to moderate tooth misalignment.
The Potential Benefits of Invisalign for TMJ Disorder
While Invisalign focuses on aligning teeth, it may have an indirect and positive effect on TMJ disorder. By correcting misaligned teeth, Invisalign may help improve the overall alignment of your bite, reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint. This may lessen TMJ-related symptoms like jaw pain, discomfort, and teeth grinding.
Schedule an Invisalign Consultation
If you’re experiencing TMJ-related symptoms, you should visit your dentist for a thorough evaluation and discussion of treatment options. While clear aligners may offer potential benefits for some patients with TMJ disorder, it may not benefit you the same way. This is why it’s so important to undergo an assessment with your dentist to figure out the most suitable approach.
So, while Invisalign is mostly known for straightening teeth, it has the potential to lessen TMJ disorder symptoms. By creating better bite alignment, clear aligner treatment can improve oral function and lessen the strain on your jaw. If you’re experiencing TMJ pain, reach out to your dentist and schedule an Invisalign consultation today. It could be the relief you’ve been looking for.
About the Practice
Ready to live a life without TMJ pain? The expert dentists at Carlson Dental Group can get you the treatment you need whether it’s Invisalign or otherwise. They are a passionate and dedicated group that adopts a patient-centered approach to dentistry. They learn about your preferences and needs before creating customized treatment plans to fit your lifestyle and budget. Call (904) 262-8449 to schedule an Invisalign consultation or visit the website to discover other services.