Can braces help with tmj?

Sometimes: Talk to both your general dentist and your orthodontist about your TMJ issues before you start braces. This needs to be part of your treatment plan. If this is not discussed with the orthodontist the braces may make your TMJ pain worse.

Maybe: Some TMJ problems are due to muscle and/ or nerve imbalances caused by forces created by an improper bite. If this is the case, then orthodontic treatment may help.

Occasionally: I don't think so. If the only tool you have is a hammer, all problems look like a nail. Get an opinion from a NON-ORTHODONTIST about your TMJ problem.

Not necessarily: With TMJ/TMD treatment, there are usually two phases. Phase one is the diagnosis and hopefully conservative treatment to get the patient comfortable and under control so that phase two (dental tx, braces, etc.,) and be implemented. Sometimes, moving the teeth via braces may even exacerbate the TMD issues. Better to work with an orthodontist and TMJ specialist together.