Expert: Susan Tannenbam - 8/26/2007

Question
Hello, after x-rays and all, this week i was informed in order to correct my TMJ problem, i will need braces. He said by pulling out 1 tooth, the teeth will slowly turn the right way and help me to bite in the right place. The dentist says I bite on my back moller teeth and grinding them down and 1 side of my teeth doesn´t line up. My jaw cracks everytime i open or close it, but i don´t usually have pain unless it locks in place which is not often. I used a properly fitted night guard, but i didn´t notice any change with my jaw. Please advise any tips or if you think by having braces would help. I am 27yrs old now, so very hesitate to have to have braces...

Answer
Dear Shavaunne,
Please keep in mind that i am NOT  dentist, just someone who has had TMJ pain.  I am not sure about braces.  I think you'd have to get a second opinion from a dentist that treats a lot of TMJ.  I know someone good in the NY area, if you live in or near NY.
I have had success with my TMJ pain which used to be quite bad, from the following:
l. Jaw exercises.  THere are books that list these you can find in the library. THey gently stretch the tight muscles.
2. Wet heat applied on the jaw muscles
3.acupunture - I found someone very good.  I had to try several acupunturists before I found one that was excellent.
4. Short term use of muscle relaxants.  You need a prescription.  THey help relax the jaw so you can open it more easily.
5. TMJ"gel" that numbs the painful areas on the cheeks.  Or you can use OTC arthritis gels that do the same thing.
6. ULTRASOUND - this was great for me.  My TMJ dentist and a physical therapist did it for me.
THe idea for a lot of the above modalities is to loosen up the tightness that is caused by clenching.  I personally think (altho, remember I am not a dentist) that by correcting ones bite, it will not necessarily correct the TMJ.  My bite has never been that great.  I believe my TMJ dentist does not think that braces are the right treatment for TMJ.  I really suggest you get some other professional opinions about the braces.