MODERN ORTHODONTICS CAN PREVENT FUTURE JAW AND TMJ PROBLEMS FOR YOUR CHILD
- Janet Stoess-Allen, DMD

Many children, starting at the age of seven, visit an orthodontist with expectations of achieving a beautiful smile.  Recent orthodontic studies indicate that improper occlusal equilibrium at a young age can lead to significant joint and muscular problems associated with one of today’Äôs fastest growing problems, Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD).

Symptoms of TMD include but are not limited to:

• Headaches
• Jaw pain and fatigue
• Clenching or grinding teeth
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Neck, back and facial pain
• Tinnitus and earaches

Other areas associated with malocclusion and improper jaw alignment may often result in sleeping and breathing disorders.  These combined problems often lead to an inability to focus in school as well as reduced performance associated with high energy activities for today’Äôs youth.

The good news is that current orthodontic treatment programs, coupled with today’Äôs technology, can identify early stage detection of individual markers for impending problems and provide preventative treatment.

To properly diagnose and develop an individual treatment plan, orthodontic exams should include:

• Panoramic and cephalometric x-rays
• Facial and dental photographs
• Impressions of the teeth
• A complete medical and dental history
• Identity of TMJ related symptoms

Potential orthodontic and TMJ related problems can often be detected early in life, and preventative measures can be taken to avoid later dysfunctions due to malocclusion or jaw asymmetry.  Because the symptoms of pain do not usually present until the teen or even adult years of life, it is often advisable to take the appropriate TMJ tomographic x-rays or CT scans of the jaw when presented with early classic symptoms.

In order to minimize the risk of potential occlusal problem and discomfort for your child, it is advisable to seek an early orthodontic consultation.  The benefit can be a positive life altering experience while at the same time finishing with a beautiful healthy smile.