Question: I recently read that TMJ jaw pain can be reduced by visiting an orthodontist. Is this true?

Dr. Herman's Answer: Yes, visiting an orthodontist will help most TMJ cases. TMJ or Temporal Mandibular Dysfuntion is usually a multifactorial problem that affects the muscles around the jaw and the back of the neck. It often leads to ringing in the ears, earaches and/or headaches. Women get it 7 times more than men. People who are under stress and/or grind their teeth, as well as those who have a deep bite or over bite, are at increased risk. I’ve had a great level of success in reducing or eliminating TMJ pain by changing a person's over bite to a more normal bite.