Braces created more issues - considering treatment options. Advice appreciated!
I decided on orthodontic work to fix my open bite and reduce jaw pain, and completed my treatment in late 2023.
I consulted with three orthodontists - the first suggested removing my premolars or jaw surgery. The second and third said I would just need invisilign. I ended up getting treatment done by the third, who ended up using champagne braces, I think.
The treatment took about one year, and halfway through the orthodontist walked back their earlier statement of treatment helping my tmj. Post braces, my bite felt uncomfortable and my front bottom teeth pressed uncomfortably into the middle of my top front teeth when I pressed them together - my dentist recommended shaving my bottom teeth down, but I declined. Since the brackets were off, I would have had to pay again to redo everything, and didn't feel comfortable going through that with the same orthodontist.
I also experienced worsening jaw pain and the need to move my jaw from side to side to "adjust" it. I stopped using my retainer a few months posts treatment, and nearly three years later, I still need to move my jaw to find relief, but the pain isn't as bad.
Sleep has always been an issue for me, and with everything combined, I'm waiting to complete a sleep test and considering trying to see if I'm a candidate for Marpe and lower jaw surgery. Really regretting not doing the surgery to begin with when it was offered at my first consultation.
I'm basically here to vent a bit, ask for insight from dental professionals on my previous treatment, and to get advice on what to do next.
Thanks in advance!