Jaw Pain Got You Down? See if Clear Aligners Can Help Your TMJ Pain
Orthodontic problems can sometimes stem from your jaw, not your teeth. A misaligned jaw can lead to bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth. This grinding or clenching can intensify the pain from temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.
Orthodontic treatment can help address these issues. Using orthodontic devices like clear aligners for TMJ pain relief can be beneficial. These aligners can help correct the position of your jaw, reducing the symptoms of bruxism and TMD.
TMD is a fairly common orthodontic condition suffered by patients, one that the National Institute of Health believes is suffered by over 10 million Americans. Common signs of TMD, or problematic jaw misalignment of any sort, include:
- Pain, tenderness, or numbing around the jaw
- Discomfort when attempting full bite seating
- Cracked, chipped, or worn tooth enamel (emblematic of bruxism)
- Facial aching, or even broader upper body ache
- Locking and/or popping in one or both jaw joints
Clear aligners can sometimes alleviate jaw discomfort. Each patient’s condition is unique.
When correctly programmed, clear aligners can enhance the bite structure. They do this by gradually moving your teeth. This process can lessen jaw strain and ease discomfort symptoms.
However, if the aligners are not programmed properly, they could exacerbate jaw alignment and discomfort. Aligners may not always be effective in reducing jaw discomfort.
The impact of clear aligners on jaw discomfort can vary. Properly aligning your teeth is crucial for the effectiveness of clear aligners.
Can Aligners Cause TMJ?
A trusted orthodontist programs clear aligners. These aligners don’t worsen jaw misalignment or discomfort. They do not alter the configuration of the jawbone. However, they can lessen the pressure on the jawbone.
Invisalign treatment is one of the treatment options. A popular choice for treating jaw misalignment with clear aligners. This treatment ensures your comfort and improves your smile without causing any harm to your jawbone. So, you can trust this treatment option for a better and brighter smile.
On the other hand, aligners that don’t fit right can make alignment worse. They can also increase discomfort. That’s why we warn against mail-order aligners Unlike clear aligners made with the assistance of a licensed, trusted orthodontist,, most mail-order aligners lack:
- The precision of in-office impressions
- The personability of in-office appointments
- The peer-reviewed efficacy of in-office aligners
Furthermore, experiencing a little jaw pain while wearing aligners can be normal , especially during the first few days of adjusting to a new tray. Gaps in aligner fit can promote muscle contractions, which in turn can promote jaw discomfort. To mitigate this, carefully bite down on Chewies and/or Movemints to promote pain relief and healthy aligner seating.
In any case, let your orthodontist know ASAP if jaw pain persists. They can provide an expert second opinion , offer additional support, determine whether or not you need a treatment revision, and ascertain the best possible solutions to your personal jaw discomfort.
Aligner Jaw Pain Relief
Clear aligner treatment can naturally alleviate your jaw pain. Chewies and Movemints are simple tools that can assist. They lessen discomfort and enhance positioning. These are part of the orthodontic solutions for jaw alignment issues.
If you still feel pain, try these tips to ease jaw discomfort:
- OTC Pain Relievers : Medicines like naproxen, aspirin, and ibuprofen may help alleviate pain associated with severe, chronic TMD.
- Massaging : Rub the affected regions in a circular motion for at least 5 to 10 rotations. This can help relieve tension and relax the muscles, as well as any TMD-related neck discomfort.
- Muscle Exercises : Partial, full, tucked, resisted, and side-by-side jaw movement exercises are all simple, yet effective ways to work out jaw strain.
- Stress Relief : Consider administering relaxing self-care exercises like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness techniques. This won’t just alleviate emotional tension, but potentially, jaw tension as well. If you suspect your stress is symptomatic of a clinical anxiety disorder, consider probing that deeper through behavioral therapy.
- Mindful Dieting : During the two free hours that your aligners are removed, be careful to avoid hard, crunchy foods that will apply unnecessary strain to the jaw.
- Mindful Intake : Even stimulant drugs as mild as caffeine can overwork the jaw muscles. Consider moderating your morning coffee intake while undergoing treatment, and if you’re struggling with more intensive addiction, seeking help with a trusted substance abuse counselor.
Can You Get Aligners If You Have TMJ?
If you’re considering a set of aligners, keep in mind that they’re a great fit for many people. However, if you suffer from severe sleep bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, they might not be the best option for you. The intense grinding could potentially damage the aligner material.
On the other hand, if you have a moderate case of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), don’t rule out the use of clear aligners just yet. They could still be a suitable choice for your dental needs.
For severe jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery may be suggested by your orthodontist. Clear aligners can sometimes be used before and after surgery. However, traditional metal braces, lingual braces, which include brackets and wires that apply pressure, are often preferred.
Can You Fix Jaw Alignment Without Surgery?
The majority of individuals do not require surgical intervention for their jaw. Jaw misalignment and TMD pain often self-resolve. Correct use of clear aligners can ease this pain. Proper brushing of your teeth (upper and lower teeth) is crucial.
Nonetheless, transparent aligners are designed for teeth, not for jaws. They might help align the mandible and reduce pain, but that’s not their main purpose.
Furthermore, if your jaw misalignment is severe enough to require orthognathic surgery , aligners won’t be sufficient at mending those issues alone. In any case, let your orthodontist know if you’re experiencing jaw issues during aligner treatment, so they can offer prompt help and discern the best next steps.
