Q. What causes TMJ disorder after wearing of braces?
Hello doctor,I got my braces a year ago, and before that, I did not have any problem in my jaw articulation. Since my orthodontist gave me elastics to put I have TMJ disorder, my left articulation crack every time I open my mouth or eat or speak (I have decided not to put the elastics so that it does not get worse) and I am a bit worried. What causes this? Can this be fixed?
Hello. Based on the given history, it can be due to the extra force you gave to open the mouth while on elastics. Based on your age, it can be due to an impacted wisdom tooth. Sometimes, this can be due to any muscle problem too (myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome), mostly due to physical stress in that area or emotional or mental stress. As for now, do not open your mouth very wide, like during yawning, etc. This is curable. Do not worry much. Do you have pain along with the click? I would suggest you talk to your orthodontist or general dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon to get a final diagnosis after a clinical examination done by them. If possible, send me your OPG (orthopantomogram) and lateral TMJ (open and closed mouth) X-rays to guide you further.