If your jaw clicks, pops, or aches when you chew or yawn, you’re not alone. These symptoms – often tied to stress or disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) – can be frustrating, even painful.
Many people with bite problems or crooked teeth find that braces or clear aligners provide some relief. By straightening your teeth, orthodontic treatment can alleviate pressure on your jaw and improve its movement.
However, while some individuals experience relief, research is still unclear on whether orthodontics can directly reduce clicking or popping.
If you’re thinking about getting braces or aligners to fix these issues, it’s important to know what they can, and can’t, do.
What Causes TMJ Symptoms like Popping and Clicking?
TMJ symptoms can arise from a variety of causes, many of which are related to how your jaw moves or how it’s used. Common triggers include:
- Bite problems (malocclusion): When your teeth don’t align properly, it can put added strain on your jaw, leading to discomfort or pain.
- Jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism): These habits often occur unconsciously, especially during sleep, and can significantly stress the jaw joint.
- Stress, injury, or jaw habits: Activities like chewing gum, nail-biting, or even past injuries can contribute to TMJ discomfort.
When these factors combine, they can create or worsen symptoms like jaw pain, clicking, or popping. Addressing the underlying causes can help reduce these issues and improve overall jaw health.
How Braces and Aligners Might Help TMJ Symptoms
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can help improve your bite and might reduce TMJ symptoms.
Here’s how it could work:
Improving Bite Alignment
When your teeth are crooked or misaligned, and your bite is not stable, it can put extra pressure on your jaw joint. Braces or aligners straighten your teeth, helping them fit together better, help making your bite stable and reduce that pressure.
Relieving Pressure on the Jaw
A better bite means less stress on your jaw joints, which could lead to less discomfort, clicking, or popping when you chew or yawn.
Realistic Expectations
While many people find relief from their symptoms after orthodontic treatment, it’s important to know that results can vary. Some may experience none or only minor improvements or need more time.
If you’re considering braces or aligners for TMJ symptoms, talk to your orthodontist about what to expect from treatment.
Other Treatment Options for Popping and Clicking Symptoms
If orthodontic treatment doesn’t feel right for you, there are other options to consider. Depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms, the following treatments may help reduce pain and improve jaw function:
- Night guards or splints: These custom-fitted devices are worn over your teeth at night to prevent grinding or clenching, which can reduce pressure on the jaw and alleviate pain.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises and stretches to help improve jaw mobility and relieve muscle tension.
- Jaw exercises and stress management: Gentle jaw exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve the movement of your jaw. Managing stress through techniques like relaxation exercises or mindfulness can also prevent clenching and grinding.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be time to see a specialist. A dentist, TMJ doctor, or orthodontist can offer a more detailed diagnosis and discuss other treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
What to Expect During an Orthodontic Evaluation for TMJ
If you’re dealing with jaw pain or clicking and considering orthodontic treatment, your first step is a detailed consultation. For example, at Enjoy Orthodontics, Dr. Felipe Porto takes the time to understand your symptoms and assess whether braces or aligners could help.
Here’s what typically happens during an evaluation:
- A medical and dental history review: You’ll talk about your symptoms, any history of jaw pain or injury, and lifestyle habits like clenching or grinding.
- Bite and jaw assessment: Porto will check how your teeth come together and how your jaw moves when you open and close your mouth.
- Digital imaging and scans: X-rays, 3D scans, or photos may be taken to get a clearer picture of your bite and jaw joints.
- Personalized treatment discussion: Based on your evaluation, you’ll learn whether orthodontic treatment could relieve pressure on your jaw or if another solution may be a better first step.
This evaluation is a great opportunity to get expert guidance and ask questions about your treatment options. It’s all about finding the right fit for your unique jaw health and smile goals.
Lifestyle Tips to Reduce TMJ Popping and Clicking
Whether or not you pursue orthodontic treatment, there are simple daily habits that can make a big difference in managing TMJ symptoms. Small changes in how you use and care for your jaw can ease discomfort and help prevent flare-ups.
Try incorporating these tips into your routine:
- Eat soft foods during painful periods instead of crunchy or chewy snacks.
- Avoid habits that overwork your jaw, like chewing ice, biting your nails, or gnawing on pens.
- Applying warm compresses, like a warm towel, on the side of your face can help soothe sore jaw muscles.
- Be mindful of your jaw position and try to keep your teeth slightly apart when at rest.
- Practice stress management to avoid tension that often leads to clenching or grinding.
These small steps, combined with professional care, can go a long way in supporting jaw health and overall comfort!
So, Should You Get Braces or Aligners for Popping and Clicking?
While orthodontic treatment can help improve bite alignment and reduce pressure on the jaw, it’s not always the right solution for everyone.
Orthodontics may be a good fit if:
- You have bite issues, misaligned teeth, or a malocclusion that might be contributing to your jaw discomfort.
- You’re looking for a non-invasive treatment to improve your bite and reduce jaw strain.
However, before committing to braces or aligners, it’s also important to consider other treatment options if:
- Your symptoms are caused primarily by stress, teeth grinding, or jaw habits.
- You haven’t yet explored solutions like night guards, physical therapy, or stress management techniques.
To determine if orthodontics is a good fit for you, it’s important to have a conversation with your orthodontist about your symptoms and goals.
Ready to explore treatment options for your TMJ symptoms? Contact Enjoy Orthodontics and Dr. Felipe Porto to schedule a consultation today!
