Orthodontics TMD and TMJ
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the proper positioning of jaws and teeth. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, or the jaw joint. And TMD (Temporomandibular Dysfunction) refers to a group of conditions, often painful, that affect the jaw joint and associated muscles when the joints do not work together correctly.
The most common cause of jaw-related problems is a bad (or misaligned) bite. Misaligned and crowded teeth can cause decay, infection, gum disease, loose teeth and jaw posture misalignment. However, the potential problems go beyond the mouth. An uneven bite can cause related health problems such as headaches, dizziness, ear symptoms, neck discomfort and various other TMJ disorders.
Orthodontics is concerned not only with the teeth, but also with the jaw bones, the Temporomandibular joints (TMJs), supportive ligaments and the chewing muscles. The aim of orthodontic correction is to establish a correct, solid bite that is in harmony with the jaw muscles and head-neck posture.