How Invisalign Can Help Alleviate TMJ Issues

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Cleveland JawTemporomandibular joint disorders can cause significant discomfort and pain. Individuals affected by TMJ-related issues often experience symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, popping or clicking of the jaw, and difficulty opening or closing their mouths. Orthodontic treatment can shift the teeth and jaw into a more harmonious position which often alleviates TMD symptoms. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about how Invisalign can help alleviate TMJ issues and improve overall oral health.

TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders occur when there is a problem with the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. These issues can arise due to several reasons, including teeth misalignment, jaw arthritis, jaw injury, or teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism).

Invisalign Treatment and TMJ

Using advanced digital technology, we can map out the precise movements of your teeth to create a better bite. Invisalign then uses this series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually adjust teeth into their desired position. While primarily known for straightening teeth, Invisalign has shown promising results in treating TMJ disorders. Here’s how Invisalign can help:

  • Orthodontics correct dental misalignments such as crowded teeth, crossbites, overbites, or underbites. By correcting these alignment issues, we can see an improvement in the overall bite, reducing strain on the jaw joint.
  • Many TMJ disorders are associated with excessive teeth grinding or clenching. Clear aligners act as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the impact of bruxism. They also encourage proper oral habits, making it harder to clench or grind unconsciously.
  • Invisalign treatment improves the stability and support provided by the teeth, which helps distribute the forces of biting and chewing evenly. This reduces stress on the TMJ, mitigating pain and discomfort.
  • They are non-invasive and provide a gentle approach to creating a more beautiful smile and improving jaw function. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners do not involve metal brackets or wires that can irritate the jaw joint or cause further discomfort.

Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation

Invisalign offers an effective and non-invasive solution for individuals suffering from TMJ-related issues, helping to alleviate pain and improve overall oral health. To see if you are a candidate for Invisalign, call our dental office in Cleveland, TX, today at (281) 592-1234. We also proudly serve patients and their families from Kingwood, New Caney, Conroe, Livingston, Huffman, and all surrounding communities.