How Common is TMD Disorder with Braces?

Article By Remarkable Smiles Orthodontics.  

One of the best ways to reduce problems while wearing braces is with simple good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice per day and floss once each day. Use a decent mouthwash that contains fluoride. Avoid sticky or hard foods that could break or damage teeth. See your orthodontist for regular visits.

What is TMD Disorder?

Many Americans suffer from chronic facial and jaw pain due to a problem in the temporomandibular (TM) joints.  These joints are located on each side of the head and work together to facilitate jaw movements needed for speaking and chewing. Occasionally, orthodontists see this problem with those wearing braces.

Some of the symptoms include:

Jaw, neck, and head aches

Pain in and around the ear

Jaw pain while chewing

Clicking sound when opening or closing mouth

Difficulty opening or closing mouth

What Causes TMD?

Overuse of jaw muscles can affect TMD, along with grinding the teeth or excessive amounts of stress. Doctors don’t know the exact causes of TMD, but researchers are working on theories about how psychological, behavioral, and physical factors may combine to cause TMD.  In many cases, stress is a big factor.

Though wearing braces can be stressful for some people, with regular visits, patients shouldn’t have any problems. For those who are worried about issues like this, it may be best to choose Invisalign. This works using a clear plastic-like device that is practically invisible. It’s not painful or difficult to wear and you’ll barely realize that you’re wearing braces at all.

Article written by Remarkable Smiles Orthodontics.  Dr. Mark Rashidi, who operates Remarkable Smiles, is an Orthodontist in Mission Viejo and surrounding cities including Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel and Irvine. If you or a family member need dental braces in mission viejo, please contact us.