braces - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

paxy · 09-21-2003, 10:21 PM

is putting braces a good solution? is it safe? or is it something like surgery which would cause more pain than help?

saaraah · 09-22-2003, 06:42 AM

there's controversy concerning braces.. some people have developed TMJD while in braces.. others have been helped.

imo, it's better to get the pain under control before doing anything that's irreversible. i believe that braces is a treatment that is not conservative; other avenues should be considered before doing it.

- saaraah.

Michelle W · 09-22-2003, 08:21 AM

Hi,

I was told by my orthodontist that your symptoms should be under control before you start moving teeth around. For example, I am wearing a splint at this time and I am not completely comfortable, so moving my teeth around would make me more uncomfortable.

Also a book I read about TMJ says do not move the teeth around until you are completely comfortable with no or minimal symptoms.

lashby · 09-24-2003, 07:44 AM

I have had braces, and while my bite is now alligned, I still have symptoms of TMJ. They are only bad when I am under stress, but I do still experience tightness in the muscles, headaches and fullness of the ears. Braces didn't seem to have much of an effect on my TMJ, but my teeth look a lot better!