Could a orthodontist treat temporomandibular disorders?

TMD\TMJ: There is no true specialty in dentistry regarding treating TMJoint disorders. It is based more on the experience and training of the particular doctor as well as a personal decision if one feels competent to treat such situations or refer it to another health care provider. General dentists, Orthodontists, Prosthodontists and Oral Surgeons typically can treat this.

Yes, but ...: This continues to be a highly debated topic in our profession with regard to which cases, efficacy, etc. Some patients are definitely helped by orthodontic treatment for their TMJ and some orthodontists are specially trained for this, but, as noted, the answer is sadly not a clear cut and dry yes-- more of a maybe.

Yes: Sometimes a team of Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon, and Restorative Dentist will provide you with the best level of care. See an Orthodontist for an examination.

Of course: the orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics are the first specialty created in the field of dentistry. By definition orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. Ask your orthodontist for more information.