Invisalign is popular for its aesthetic benefits. Indeed, it has the potential to correct misalignment and boost your confidence in your smile! But did you know that in some cases, its benefits go far beyond mere appearances? If you have been struggling with jaw pain and other symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD), Invisalign might be able to help you find long-term relief! This blog post explores how that may happen.
What Causes TMJ Problems?
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your mandible (lower jaw) to the rest of your skull. When the TMJ is injured or inflamed, it can result in symptoms of TMJ disorder. TMD may be the result of various contributing factors, such as physical trauma, arthritis, or stress. In some cases, its cause remains completely unknown!
Often, though, a misaligned bite — such as an overbite, underbite, cross bite, or open bite—strains the TMJ, leading to pain, chewing difficulties, headaches, and a range of other unpleasant symptoms.
Invisalign and TMD
If your TMD is the result of a malocclusion (bad bite), Invisalign might be able to help correct the underlying cause of your symptoms. As you wear your aligners, your teeth and jaws will gradually come into better alignment. This can ease strain on your TMJ and may lead to a long-term reduction in symptoms. For some patients, their TMD completely goes away!
Of course, it is important to keep in mind that Invisalign is not a one-size-fits-all solution to TMD. Some patients require other forms of treatment to find relief. And it is even possible that Invisalign’s aligners could temporarily increase symptoms of TMD. It can do so by causing muscle tension and stress, as well as by changing your natural bite. If symptoms increase, they are likely to do so toward the beginning of treatment.
Getting Started with Treatment
Because there is no universal solution for TMJ disorder, it is important that you get evaluated by a dentist who has experience with this condition. They can strive to determine the cause of your pain and then recommend your next steps. Whether that involves Invisalign, a custom oral appliance to relax your jaw muscles, or other therapies, hopefully you will soon be on your way to freedom from jaw pain!
Meet the Practice
At Exceptional Dentistry Pain & Sleep Solutions, our team is committed to helping patients enjoy improved health and a better quality of life. Our dentists are experts at treating TMJ disorder! If you have been struggling with jaw pain and other symptoms of TMD, we can evaluate your case and provide an expert opinion on what you should do to find relief. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our Aspen Hill, MD, office at 301-460-3331.