TMJ Orthodontics in Maryville  

Taking care of your oral health involves more than just brushing and flossing your teeth. If you frequently clench your teeth or experience a jaw injury, you may be at a greater risk of developing a jaw joint disorder. At Owens Orthodontics, our team can help you find relief to restore your health and quality of life.

What Is a TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder?

The TMJ is a joint on either side of your jaw that links your jawbone and skull together. The TMJ allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side to talk, chew and yawn. If you are experiencing a TMJ disorder, it may become painful to move your jaw.

While orthodontic TMJ specialists do not know the exact cause of TMJ disorder, it can result from muscular issues in your jaw or in the parts of the joint itself. An injury to your jaw, joint or head and neck muscles, such as whiplash, can also result in a TMJ disorder. 

Some additional factors that can cause TMJ disorder include:

• Grinding your teeth
• Stress
• Arthritis

Customized Treatment Plans for TMJ

While the best solution will depend on your specific needs, some common treatments for TMJ disorder include:

• Invisalign®: A misaligned bite may contribute to TMJ disorder. Invisalign for TMJ can correct many common bite issues and gradually move your teeth into the correct position to reduce pressure.
• Bite guard: Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause joint pain. Wearing a bite guard for TMJ at night or during the day will keep your jaw in the correct position and help your jaw and facial muscles relax.
• Physical therapy: Poor posture or arthritis can cause TMJ disorder. Physical therapy can help you decrease inflammation, improve posture and regain function.
• Braces: Misaligned teeth can place uneven pressure on your jaw. Like Invisalign, braces can realign your jaw and bite to reduce pressure and alleviate symptoms.
• Corrective jaw surgery: You may qualify for corrective jaw surgery if you have tried braces and other orthodontic devices without success. Corrective jaw surgery will permanently align your jaw and teeth for a long-lasting solution.