TMJ Disorder Caused by Crooked Teeth

TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, or the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. TMJ disorder inhibits jaw movement and can cause a number of other uncomfortable symptoms, including facial pain, headaches, and ringing in the ears.

There are many potential causes of TMJ disorder. One common cause is crooked teeth or a misaligned bite. Individuals in the Redwood City, CA, area who are suffering from TMJ disorder caused by crooked teeth can work with Dr. Jean Barthman to explore TMJ treatment options. TMJ treatment promotes proper alignment so that the joint is able to open and close smoothly, without causing any pain.

How Do Crooked Teeth Cause TMJ Disorder?

Proper alignment allows the temporomandibular joint to move smoothly in different directions, so that a person can bite, chew, speak, and laugh without discomfort. Unfortunately, anything that affects the alignment of the jaw can contribute to TMJ disorder, and this includes crooked teeth.

When the teeth are crooked a person may alter their bite to accommodate the misalignment of the teeth. This can create an uneven weight distribution when a person bites, which can put pressure on the jaw and lead to TMJ disorder. Individuals with crooked teeth are also more susceptible to teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), which is another condition that can strain the TMJ and surrounding muscles.

Recognizing TMJ Disorder Symptoms

Even minor misalignment can lead to TMJ disorder, which means that even if teeth are not severely crooked they can affect the TMJ. It is important that individuals recognize the potential symptoms of TMJ disorder so they know when to seek treatment at our Redwood City dental practice. The most common TMJ disorder symptoms include:

• Jaw stiffness
• Limited jaw movement (inability to fully open or close the jaw)
• Lockjaw (the jaw gets stuck in the open or closed position)
• Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
• Frequent headaches
• Facial pain
• Earaches
• Ringing in the ears
• Pain in the neck, shoulders, or upper back

Treating TMJ Disorder Caused by Crooked Teeth 

The best way to treat TMJ disorder caused by crooked teeth is to straighten the teeth and encourage proper alignment of the jaw. For cases of moderate to severe misalignment our Redwood city patients are likely to require orthodontic treatment, such as traditional braces or Invisalignâ. 

If crooked teeth and misalignment are not as severe, patients may be suitable candidates for less invasive TMJ treatment. Treatment options include neuromuscular dentistry and orthotic splints. Neuromuscular dentistry stimulates the facial muscles with an ultra-low electrical pulse to help individuals relax. Orthotic splints are plastic appliances that are worn over the top and bottom teeth while a patient sleeps. They hold the jaw in proper alignment and prevent teeth grinding or clenching.

Dr. Barthman is happy to help her patients determine the most appropriate TMJ treatment option based on their unique needs.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are suffering from symptoms of TMJ disorder you do not have to continue to live in pain. Dr. Jean Barthman offers TMJ treatment to improve jaw movement and enhance overall comfort. To find out which treatment is right for you, send us a message online, or call (650) 367-4967 and schedule an appointment.