Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects millions of Americans each year. TMJ can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort as well as difficulty eating and speaking. For this reason, many people turn to orthodontics in the hopes of finding relief.
I had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Kelley Mingus, an orthodontist who has been treating TMJ for over ten years. Dr. Mingus shared with me the science behind TMJ and how orthodontics can help.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This joint is one of the most complex in your body, allowing you to move your mouth, speak, and chew. When this joint becomes inflamed (due to a variety of factors such as genetics, trauma, or arthritis), it can cause a great deal of pain and difficulty in moving the jaw.
How Does Orthodontics help with TMJ?
Orthodontists are trained to identify and treat any issues with the jaw. One of the most common treatments for TMJ is braces. Braces can help to correct any misaligned teeth or jaw that may be causing the irritation to the temporomandibular joint.
Additionally, sleep apnea and snoring can contribute to TMJ. Dr. Mingus shared that orthodontics can also help to reduce or eliminate these issues. He explained that the jaw, teeth, and tongue are all connected so getting them all in proper alignment can alleviate the symptoms.
What Are the Most Common TMJ Treatments?
Dr. Mingus shared that the most common treatments for TMJ include the use of a mouthguard, heat treatments, cold treatments, ibuprofen, muscle relaxation, and physical therapy. In rare cases, a person may need surgery to correct the problem.
Dr. Mingus recommends that anyone experiencing pain or difficulty moving their jaw should visit an orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment. An orthodontist can conduct x-rays and examine the jaw and teeth to determine the best treatment.
How Should a Person Choose an Orthodontist for TMJ Treatment?
Dr. Mingus recommends that anyone in need of orthodontic treatment for TMJ should choose a orthodontist with experience treating this condition. An experienced orthodontist will know the most effective treatments and can provide personalized care. Additionally, an experienced orthodontist will be familiar with the most recent advancements in orthodontics, which means they will be able to provide the best possible treatment.
Conclusion
Orthodontics can be an effective treatment for TMJ. An orthodontist can help to identify the cause of the problem and provide the necessary treatment. Dr. Kelley Mingus, who has been treating TMJ for over ten years, shared with me that braces are one common treatment for TMJ. Additionally, an experienced orthodontist can provide personalized care and stay on top of the most recent advancements in orthodontics. Therefore, if you are experiencing pain or difficulty moving your jaw, it may be time to make an appointment with an orthodontist.