I Got Invisalign and Now I Have TMJ

I am 7 months into Invisalign, and now I have what I think are TMJ issues. My jaw hurts, and it locks. Also, I can hear some clicking in my ears. This never happened before Invisalign. So, I am connecting these issues with Invisalign.

I am upset because I specifically wanted Invisalign for my job, which involves a lot of travel and presentations to potential clients. Now the thought of having braces is scary. I know that it will affect my effectiveness and ability to get contracts. How many people are going to take a 46-year-old woman with braces seriously?

It is also disappointing that my dentist didn’t tell me that this might be an issue before getting Invisalign. I anticipate a lot of defensiveness from him because that is just his nature. So, I need to ask an independent dentist before confronting my dentist with this concern. Maybe I will explore lingual braces, although I hear those are painful. Unbelievable. I will have a TMJ dentist do an exam if this is common. Can Invisalign cause TMJ? Thanks, Lashawn from Memphis, TN

Lashawn,

Thank you for your question. Although Dr. Tostado would need to examine your teeth and x-rays for an accurate diagnosis, we can answer your question.

Does Invisalign Cause TMJ?

Orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, does not cause TMJ. Still, movement of your bite can cause pre-existing joint dysfunction to worsen. The manufacturer of Invisalign cautions that oral appliances may aggravate TMJ disorder. It would be best to tell your dentist about the jaw-joint problems you are experiencing.

Your dentist will interrupt your orthodontic treatment to address your TMJ discomfort. It is essential to address the issue first to prevent it from worsening. Your dentist will later determine whether your treatment with Invisalign should continue or if another type of orthodontic treatment would be best for your case.

If you feel you need a second opinion, schedule an appointment with a dentist trained in diagnosing and treating TMJ.

San Antonio prosthodontist Dr. Gilberto Tostado sponsors this post.