Can You Use Invisalign to Treat Your TMJ Disorder?

Having a TMJ disorder means living with constant pain in your jaw. Naturally, you will want to take whatever steps you can to find relief. There are multiple methods for treating a TMJ disorder – and surprisingly enough, Invisalign is one of them. How can clear aligners help you overcome your jaw pain? The answer can be found below.

What Exactly is a TMJ Disorder, and What Causes It?

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint responsible for connecting the lower jaw to the rest of your skull. Having a TMJ disorder means there’s something wrong with this joint; this often results in constant pain in your jaw and facial muscles, and it can also lead to tension headaches.

There are a number of things that can potentially cause a TMJ disorder. In some cases, the issue might lie with the alignment of the teeth; if they don’t line up correctly, they may put an excessive amount of pressure on your jaw. On top of that, TMJ disorder is often linked to bruxism, which is when you unconsciously grind and clench your teeth at night.

How Can Invisalign Help Treat Your TMJ Disorder?

Invisalign treatment involves a series of clear aligners that gradually move the teeth until they reach the proper positioning. Once the teeth are where they’re supposed to be, they won’t put as much pressure on your jaws, thus reducing the discomfort associated with your TMJ disorder.

Furthermore, Invisalign aligners have the side benefit of keeping the upper and lower rows of teeth separated. As such, your smile will be protected from the bruxism that can potentially make TMJ-related problems worse.

Are You a Candidate for Using Invisalign to Treat Your TMJ Disorder?

Your dentist will need to carefully examine your mouth and jaw in order to narrow down the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder. If the issue seems to be connected to the alignment of your teeth, Invisalign may be an option worth considering.

Bear in mind that the severity of the problem matters. In general, Invisalign is best suited for correcting mild to moderate cases of misalignment. Additionally, the treatment relies heavily on patient compliance; you need to be able to commit to wearing the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day.

If you’re tired of forcing yourself to live with a TMJ disorder, Invisalign could be the key to regaining a pain-free lifestyle. Get in touch with your dentist today to see what they recommend.

About the Author

Dr. Sweeta Walia studied dentistry at the Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine, and she completed a General Practice Residency at Staten Island University Hospital. She is a Platinum Provider of Invisalign, and she is proud to be able to use clear aligners to help her patients achieve straighter smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Walia at Dental Impressions in Mesquite, visit her website or call (972) 288-3200.