Legal/orthodontic question! am i right to be upset about developing tmj from treatment?

Why?: What is it that makes you think you have developed TMJ problems from orthodontic treatment? There is very few instances in which careful orthodontic movements may temporarily cause some issues with the TMJ but typically they are short term. I would encourage you to bring these issues up to your treating dentist/orthodontist who can best advise and guide you.

Normally No: Orthodontic treatment, especially these days, is usually done with the jaws in mind. Beautiful smiles are fine, but preventing a tmj/tmd problem is first priority. Your history is important too, if any TMJ symptoms were present prior to treatment.

Upset at who?: While you certainly are justified in being upset due to the onset of tmd, it is very, very unlikely the braces are the cause of your problem. Orthodontics (especially where rubber bands are used) can exacerbate an existing problem with your joint(s), but research has shown that braces neither fix or cause joint problems, except in rare cases. Pursuing legal options will likely help just the lawyer.

What is the cause: Normally a TMJ problem comes from micro or macro trauma to the joint. Orthodontic treatments should help support the best functional position of the lower jaw to the upper jaw to help maintain a stable and functional joint. Sometimes a patient requiring orthodontic care may have a problem at the onset and this problem may get worse. You will need to check with your orthodontist or dentist.

Probably not. : The vast majority of the scientific literature concludes that orthodontic treatment is neither a cure or cause of TMJ problems.

No: Research has shown that the incidence of developing tmd (tempormandibular disorder) is the same for those who have had orthodontic treatment as those who have not had orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment in itself is not a cause for developing tmd. It is also important to differentiate between tmd and myofacial pain dysfunction (discomfort of the muscles of mastication). A complete work up.

Yes, but: Possible. If your TMJ problem was truly caused by ortho treatment, yes. Complex question. I would get other opinions from TMJ experts to help guide your choices about treatment from this point.