Orthodontics and the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions help correct misalignments and improve oral and jaw function.
Osteopathy is an excellent method for diagnosing and treating movement restrictions and blockages in the human body. It helps restore balance within the body’s systems. In osteopathy, the lower jaw is viewed as part of a whole that can only function properly when all parts work in harmony.
Osteopathy in Orthodontics
Osteopathy views the human body as a unit made up of three interconnected systems: the musculoskeletal system, internal organs, and the craniosacral system (skull, spine, sacrum). The lower jaw functionally belongs to the craniosacral system and thus plays a central role. TMJ disorders not only affect the joint itself but can impact overall body posture and the nervous system.
Example: Even minor bite discrepancies or slight differences in molar height – e.g., after an accident or due to dental defects – can trigger dysfunction.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD / CMD)
Craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) refers to misalignments between the skull (cranium) and lower jaw (mandible). This can lead to muscular tension, joint discomfort, and neurological irritation. Especially important: The masticatory muscles are attached to the sphenoid bone – a central cranial bone that also anchors the dura mater (brain lining). Tension in the jaw can therefore affect the entire spine and nervous system.
Symptoms
- clicking or popping sounds when chewing or yawning
- teeth grinding or clenching at night
- worn front teeth = abrasion
- non-restorative sleep
- tooth pain without dental or gum disease = parafunction on healthy teeth
- ear pain or tinnitus
- sleep-related breathing disorders
- radiating pain in the jaw or facial area
- limited mouth opening or painful jaw movement
- jaw lock (restricted ability to open the mouth)
- hypermobile jaw (excessive mouth opening, dislocation)
- joint inflammation (arthritis), due to rheumatic disease or trauma
- concentration and learning difficulties
- morning stiffness and joint pain
- visual disturbances
- facial pain = trigeminal neuralgia
Causes
- rheumatic conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, ankylosing spondylitis)
- stress (jaw clenching)
- postural issues, particularly from occupational strain on shoulders and cervical spine
- accidents, e.g., whiplash injuries
- bite misalignments, missing molars
- over- or underfilled dental restorations
- prolonged dental treatments
- incorrect orthodontic appliance use
- general anesthesia with excessive jaw stretching
Treating TMJ dysfunctions requires a holistic approach – the entire masticatory system (teeth, joint, muscles) and surrounding structures must be addressed together.
Orthodontics & Growth
During a child’s growth, tooth positioning adapts to body posture. Functional spinal issues, especially in the cervical spine, can influence TMJ positioning and thus tooth alignment. Likewise, issues in areas such as the digestive system may affect posture and therefore alter bite alignment.
Osteopathy has proven to be a valuable complement to orthodontic treatment to ensure optimal bite correction. Speak to your dentist and/or orthodontist about it.
Stomatognathic System / Oral Orthopedics
The stomatognathic system includes all structures in the mouth, jaw, head, and neck. These structures are interconnected and influence each other.
Disorders in this area can negatively impact the entire body and lead to dysfunction or disease. Diagnosing such conditions requires an interdisciplinary approach involving dentistry, orthodontics, conventional medicine, naturopathy, TCM, physiotherapy, and osteopathy.
