Invisalign and TMJ: Can Invisalign Help with Jaw Pain?

Invisalign and TMJ: Can Invisalign Help with Jaw Pain?

Temporomandibular joint disease (TMD) is generally known as chronic jaw pain. The joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull is impacted by this particular illness. While the most effective therapy for TMD depends on a number of variables, it is possible to correct your temporomandibular joint with Invisalign. 

This post will discuss how using Invisalign in SE Calgary to fix your orthodontic problems could lessen or cure your TMJ condition.

TMJ and Invisalign

People with TMJ disorders frequently search desperately for relief. Fortunately, an orthodontist may often use Invisalign therapy to relieve the symptoms of TMJ disease. With the use of a series of transparent aligners, the Invisalign process can move a person’s teeth gradually over time. 

Patients undergoing Invisalign treatment must wear their invisible aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day, including while they sleep. Your Invisalign aligners serve as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth when they are in your mouth, keeping them from rubbing against one another. Your aligners will shield your teeth from wear brought on by grinding since they prevent your teeth from coming into direct contact with one another. Additionally, they can shield you from signs of TMJ disease, including jaw pain and facial weariness.

While Invisalign can aidTMD sufferers in various ways, having a perfectly aligned bite at the conclusion of your treatment can help lessen or eliminate the symptoms of the TMJ condition. Your jaw muscles may be reprogrammed during treatment to stop grinding your teeth, for instance. Your transparent aligners from Invisalign can condition your jaw muscles to be more effective, which can alleviate wear and discomfort sometimes linked to TMJ issues.

Causes of TMJ

Multiple factors can contribute to temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), including:

  • Jaw misalignment: If the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, stress will be placed on the TMJ and its supporting tissues, which can result in TMJ dysfunction.
  • Bruxism: Teeth clenching or grinding on a regular basis (bruxism) can put a strain on the TMJ and make it dysfunctional.
  • Trauma or injury: A blow to the head, face, or jaw that strikes directly can injure the TMJ or its supporting tissues, leading to TMJ dysfunction.
  • Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two kinds of arthritis that can affect the TMJ and result in inflammation, discomfort, and restricted movement.
  • Anxiety and stress: Emotional stress and tension can cause muscle tightening and jaw clenching, which raises the likelihood of TMJ issues.
  • Malocclusion: An incorrect bite, in which the teeth are not properly aligned, can place stress on the TMJ, causing pain and dysfunction.
  • Poor posture: Poor posture can strain the muscles surrounding the TMJ and exacerbate TMJ dysfunction, especially in the neck and upper back.
  • Hormonal changes: Changes such as those brought on by pregnancy or menopause, might cause TMD symptoms to manifest in certain people.

It’s crucial to remember that TMJ dysfunction can be caused by a variety of different circumstances and that developing an effective treatment strategy frequently necessitates a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider.

During the Treatment

Though TMJ issues are not primarily treated by Invisalign, in some circumstances where tooth misalignment is a contributing factor to jaw discomfort, Invisalign therapy may be used to tangentially minister TMJ treatment in Calgary problems. The process entails assessment, treatment planning, the wearing of personalized aligners, tracking progress, and possibly the usage of retainers following treatment. To choose the best strategy for treating TMJ symptoms, it is essential to speak with a dental expert with experience in this particular treatment.

Recovery and Aftercare

Following Invisalign for TMJ treatment, it’s crucial to adhere to these recovery and aftercare instructions:

  • Put on retainers.
  • Make appointments with your dentist near you for routine examinations.
  • Maintain good dental hygiene.
  • Keep up a balanced diet.
  • For TMJ management, heed any further advice given by your dental specialist.

Keep in mind to speak with your dentist in SE Calgary for individualized advice on healing and aftercare tailored to your TMJ disorder and Invisalign treatment.

Visit Sorensen Dental Group!

Invisalign can be your best option if you’re searching for a discreet and comfortable TMJ treatment. Thousands of patients have received successful treatment from certified Invisalign practitioners, giving them straight, at-ease smiles. 

Consult our dentist in SE Calgary right now to find out more about how Invisalign can treat your TMJ issues. We would be pleased to respond to any inquiries you may have and assist you in beginning the path to a healthy smile.

587-806-5026