Will Braces Correct TMJ Disorder?

TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, is a severely debilitating condition that affects a person’s jaw joints; TMJ is normally characterized by the sufferer experiencing pain the muscles of the face, head, jaws and neck. Many people believe that TMJ is a condition they have to put up with, but orthodontics can help relieve the symptoms of TMJ.

TMJ occurs when the joint which connects the mandible (lower jaw) with the temporal bone in the skull becomes misaligned, and there are many causes and factors which can lead to TMJ, from misaligned bite, to bruxism, and skull trauma.

In addition to the symptoms given above, TMJ can also be characterized by the clicking, or popping of jaw joints; by jaws locking or sticking in open or closed positions; or by changes in a person’s biting alignment. In fact, there are many symptoms of TMJ, and often a diagnosis from an orthodontist can confirm whether TMJ exists in a patient.

While many sufferers of TMJ tend to live through the pain, others rely on relaxation, physiotherapy and massage techniques to relieve the symptoms. However, for more prolonged relief, TMJ can be successfully treated by an orthodontist through the use of dental braces.

The braces work by slowly altering the position of a patient’s teeth, helping to realign their biting pattern by shifting teeth through exerted pressure on one or more teeth. As the teeth shift into the desired position, the pressure on the mandible joint is lessened, helping to relieve the symptoms of the disorder.

Sufferers of TMJ needn’t feel they have to battle through the pain associated with the condition. TMJ will not improve of its own accord, and so sufferers should seek advice from an orthodontist for diagnosis of the condition, and also methods to relieve and cure the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder.

To learn if orthodontic treatment is recommended in your case, contact the office of Dr. Seth Newman, serving Nassau County, at 516-626-2060 to schedule your professional consultation today.

Orthodontic Treatment: How Long Does the Process Take?

Orthodontics, unlike some dental treatments, is a long-term process. Most people, when considering orthodontic treatment, will want to know how long they will be wearing braces, and when they can expect to achieve their perfect smile. If you are seeking orthodontics in Nassau County, we can help answer some of these questions.

Length of Treatment

The amount of time it will take to complete your orthodontic treatment depends upon your individual case and your goals. The more misaligned your teeth are, the longer your treatment is likely to take. An average treatment with traditional braces takes two or three years from beginning to end. Some people will need to wear braces for a longer amount of time, while others will find results more quickly. It all depends upon your teeth and your orthodontist’s recommendation.

When you consult with your orthodontist before treatment begins, he will provide an overview of how treatment will proceed, as well as an estimate of how long it will take to achieve the results you desire. This is an individualized process, so be sure to ask as many questions as necessary to get a firm idea of what your treatment will be like.

How to Ensure Successful Treatment

In orthodontics, as in other medical professions, the patient can do a great deal to ensure successful results. To help avoid lengthier treatment or additional complications, be sure to follow these guidelines:

• Keep your teeth and braces clean to prevent decay
• Visit your dentist regularly while you are wearing braces
• Report any problems with the braces to your orthodontist immediately
• Follow all dietary recommendations while you are wearing braces
• After your braces are removed, wear your retainer according to your orthodontist’s instructions

Making sure your teeth are healthy during treatment is important to keep decay from developing around or under your braces. Continue to brush and floss regularly and visit your regular dentist to be sure your teeth are safe and sound. Broken wires or missing bands can slow treatment, so be sure to see your orthodontist for repairs when necessary.

To find out more about how long your individual orthodontic treatment might take, please call the office of Dr. Seth Newman at 516-626-2060 to schedule a consultation.