TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the jaw joint and can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty chewing. One of the factors that can contribute to TMJ is missing teeth, as the loss of teeth can cause the jawbone to deteriorate and the remaining teeth to shift out of place. Fortunately, dental implants offer a natural and minimally invasive approach to tooth replacement that can help alleviate TMJ symptoms. In this post, we’ll explore the link between TMJ and missing teeth, and how dental implants can help restore function and alleviate pain. At Holistic Smile Care in West Hollywood, Dr. Bruce Vafa DDS is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care, using a holistic approach that considers the individual needs and preferences of each patient.

According to an article published at Pubmed, “Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Orofacial Pain”:

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect 5% to 12% of the United States population. ¹

The Link Between TMJ and Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can contribute to TMJ in a number of ways. Here are some of the factors to consider:

1. Jawbone Deterioration: The loss of teeth can cause the jawbone to deteriorate, which can affect the position of the remaining teeth and cause jaw pain.
2. Shifting Teeth: When teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can shift out of place and affect the bite, which can contribute to TMJ.
3. Uneven Pressure: When teeth are missing, the remaining teeth have to work harder to compensate for the missing teeth, which can lead to uneven pressure on the jaw joint.

How Dental Implants Can Help Alleviate TMJ Symptoms

Dental implants offer a natural and minimally invasive approach to tooth replacement that can help alleviate TMJ symptoms. Here are some of the ways that dental implants can help:

1. Restoring Jawbone Structure: Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone, which helps to restore the structure and prevent further deterioration.
2. Stabilizing Remaining Teeth: Dental implants can help to stabilize the remaining teeth and prevent them from shifting out of place.
3. Balanced Bite: Dental implants can help to restore a balanced bite, which can alleviate pressure on the jaw joint and reduce TMJ symptoms.

Conclusion: Missing teeth can contribute to TMJ, but dental implants offer a natural and minimally invasive approach to tooth replacement that can help alleviate TMJ symptoms. At Holistic Smile Care in West Hollywood, Dr. Bruce Vafa DDS is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care, using a holistic approach that considers the individual needs and preferences of each patient. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how dental implants can help restore function and alleviate TMJ symptoms. As a leading dental practice in West Hollywood, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and wellness through natural and patient-centered care.

Resources

Ahmad M, Schiffman EL. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Orofacial Pain. Dent Clin North Am. 2016 Jan;60(1):105-24. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2015.08.004. Epub 2015 Oct 21. PMID: 26614951; PMCID: PMC6762033.