Orthodontic braces can be painful, this is due in part to placing mechanical stress on the ____________ (joint type), causing ___________ of the alveolar sockets of the mandible/maxilla as the teeth are slowly repositioned.
Gomphoses, Inflammation
Because
Orthodontic braces can indeed cause some discomfort or pain during the treatment process. This is because they apply mechanical stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing remodeling of the alveolar sockets of the mandible or maxilla as the teeth are being slowly repositioned.
To find this answer, you can begin by understanding the purpose of orthodontic braces. They are used to align and straighten teeth, correcting various dental problems such as crowded teeth, crooked teeth, or misaligned bites. The braces achieve this by exerting continuous pressure on the teeth, gradually shifting them into their desired positions.
When it comes to the TMJ, it's the joint that connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull. This joint allows for movements like talking, chewing, and yawning. The mechanical stress from braces can impact the TMJ, as it's involved in the overall movement of the jaw and repositioning of the teeth.
Furthermore, the alveolar sockets refer to the bone structure surrounding the roots of teeth. The pressure applied by braces causes remodeling of these sockets, allowing the teeth to shift and align properly.
In conclusion, the mechanical stress from orthodontic braces can result in discomfort or pain due to its impact on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the remodeling of alveolar sockets.