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TMJ Treatment

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn. TMJ discomfort occurs when this joint, or the muscles surrounding it, become inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, leading to pain and difficulty with everyday activities.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Discomfort

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Frequent headaches
  • Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
  • Difficulty chewing or biting down
  • Jaw locking or limited movement
  • Facial pain or swelling around the jaw joint

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be worth scheduling a consultation to discuss whether orthodontic treatment could help.

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Common Causes of TMJ Discomfort

Identifying the underlying cause is an important part of building an effective treatment plan.

How Orthodontic Treatment Can Help

We have treated over 800 patients for TMJ discomfort, typically using clear aligners and, in some cases, braces, over a treatment period of 12 to 24 months. By addressing bite misalignment, orthodontic treatment aims to create a more balanced bite that reduces strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.

For many patients, Invisalign and other clear aligners are part of an effective TMJ treatment plan.

Understanding TMJ Treatment Outcomes

TMJ treatment outcomes can vary from patient to patient. Many patients experience improvement, probably due to alignment of the bite and the muscles of the jaw. There are some patients who do not notice a difference in their symptoms, and a minority could experience flair ups. During your consultation, we will discuss what you can realistically expect based on your specific symptoms and bite, so you can make an informed decision about treatment.

A Collaborative Approach to TMJ Care

TMJ discomfort is multifactorial, which means that it is related to many different causes. TMJ discomfort often responds best to a combination of approaches. In addition to orthodontic treatment, we can refer patients to trusted colleagues for complementary options such as splint therapy, physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractry, osteopathy, Botox injections, or other TMJ management when appropriate, so your care addresses the full picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have TMJ discomfort?

Common signs include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, frequent headaches, and difficulty chewing. If you are experiencing these symptoms regularly, a consultation can help determine whether orthodontic treatment may help.

Can braces or clear aligners really help with TMJ discomfort?

For many patients, correcting bite misalignment through braces or clear aligners can reduce strain on the jaw joint and ease TMJ symptoms. Results vary by individual, and we will discuss what to expect for your specific case during your consultation.

How long does TMJ treatment take to show results?

TMJ treatment with aligners or braces typically takes 12 to 24 months. Some patients notice improvement earlier in treatment, while for others, relief develops more gradually as the bite is corrected.

Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by insurance plan. Bring your insurance details to your free consultation and our team will help you understand your coverage.

The MacKenzie Orthodontics Difference

Experience You Can Trust: With over 15 years of experience and more than 800 patients treated for TMJ discomfort, Dr. MacKenzie brings specialized knowledge to every case.

Two Advanced Aligner Systems: As Atlantic Canada’s largest clear aligner provider, we use Angel Aligner and Invisalign to create a more comfortable, balanced bite.

Advanced Technology: Digital x-rays and 3D intraoral scanning support precise, personalized treatment planning.

A Multi-Specialist Approach: Dr. MacKenzie has worked extensively with a network of general dentists, physicians, physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, osteopaths and Botox injectors who can help with TMJ discomfort based on your diagnosis.

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Schedule a Consult

Do not let TMJ discomfort affect your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward relief.

MacKenzie Orthodontics has treated over 800 patients for TMJ discomfort in Saint John, Quispamsis, Rothesay, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, as well as families from Northern Maine. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more.

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