FAQ's
continued
10.
Jaw Joint Pain and/or Clicking
Occasionally
problems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e.
temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and associated muscles,
causing joint pain, limited opening, muscle aches and
joints noises, i.e. clicking. Earaches and headaches are
sometimes related complaints. Multiple factors are
usually responsible for these signs and symptoms,
including some which are controlled by the central
nervous system.
Some of
the most common causes of TM disorders (TMD) are,
chronic muscle tension associated with clenching or
gnashing of the teeth, habits such as gum chewing or
stressed jaw posture at work or during sleep. The
symptoms may originate with a joint disease, such as
arthritis or result after previous trauma, such as a
blow to the face or sometimes from a whiplash type
injury. The severity of the symptoms may be affected by
tension, mood, and emotional distress. Neck and shoulder
muscle tensions may be a major contributor by referring
pain and tightness to the jaws and face. Severity of
symptoms may be exaggerated by faulty function of the
pain suppression system at various levels of the nervous
system.
In the
past, it was believed that an imperfect bite (dental
malocclusion) or a malpositioned lower jaw was the cause
of TMD problems. However, occlusion as a cause of TMD
has not been well demonstrated, despite
many investigations seeking to test this relationship.
"Bite problems" that occur with TMD are most
often the result of the problems rather than the cause
of the problems.
TM
disorders are musculoskeletal problems similar to aches
and pains in other joints of the body. A TM disorder is
most often treated as a medical problem and not
necessarily a dental problem. Treatment may require
specialized care from other health professionals such as
a TMD specialist, physical therapist, and/or stress
control specialist. These procedures are beyond the
scope of the usual orthodontic treatment, and if they
are indicated, additional costs may be incurred.
If your
TMD symptoms prevent you from wearing elastics, or any
other appliance to correct your bite, your orthodontist
may recommend an alternative, or compromise treatment.
Any TMD signs or symptoms should be reported promptly to
your orthodontist.
11.
Tooth Attrition and Enamel Loss
The
biting surface of adult teeth are frequently worn down
by tooth grinding or jaw clenching behavior. Tooth
interferences during jaw movements can also contribute
to tooth wear. As your teeth move during orthodontic
treatment, your bite will steadily change and new
interferences may arise.
Halting
enamel loss is not easy. It is difficult for
orthodontics alone to establish a bite completely free
from interference during jaw movement. Psychological
stress or conditioned habits may be the cause of
grinding or clenching. The biting surface of teeth may
need reshaping by special dental procedures. In some
cases, an appliance to control the rate of enamel wear
may be considered. Such procedures are beyond the scope
of usual orthodontic therapy.
12.
Risks With Orthognathic Surgery
You may
need both orthodontic treatment and surgery to modify
the size, shape, or position of your jaws. As with
surgical procedures, the risk of complications with oral
surgery is a possibility. Discuss these risks thoroughly
with your oral surgeon if your orthodontist recommends
surgery.
Will
My Teeth Go Back To The Way They Were?
"Relapse"
refers to the movement of the teeth back toward their
original positions after your braces have been removed.
Ideally, your teeth should remain stable after
retention. However, teeth can move at any time, whether
or not they have had orthodontic treatment. The most
vulnerable teeth are those in the lower front.
Periodontal
disease, mouth breathing, and harmful tongue or oral
habits can cause teeth to move. For these reasons, and
many others beyond the control of your orthodontist, it
cannot be guaranteed that your teeth will remain in a
perfect position for the rest of your life.
Your
teeth are unlikely to "relapse" to their
original position if you use your retainer properly; but
if you do not, you may undo much or all of the progress
you have made. Some patients must wear a retainer
indefinitely to keep their teeth aligned. If you do not
wear your retainer as directed, your orthodontist cannot
assume responsibility for undesirable tooth movement.
Make sure you keep appointments for retention adjustment
as scheduled. |
