Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment is caused when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet correctly. The most common types of jaw misalignment are an overbite where the upper teeth protrude out and a underbite where the lower teeth protrude and are positioned in front of the upper teeth. These jaw problems can be treated by a dentist or orthodontist in a number of ways.

Jaw misalignment can have an impact on a person physically and emotionally. It can affect the way people eat, sleep, speak and breathe. A lot of the time chronic jaw pain is common as the joints of the jaw aren’t working correctly. Misalignment of the jaw can make people very self conscious which is why treatment is important for most patients. The following are treatment options for people with misaligned jaws and relating problems.

Braces

Braces are the most common treatment to fix crooked or crowded teeth but they also help to correct the position of the jaw in some cases. Braces are a wire and backets which are cemented onto the teeth to force them into a desired position. Over time the wires will be tightened to continue the movement of the teeth and jaw. Braces are a popular option for an overbite.

Headgear Braces

Headgear braces are not as common nowadays as orthodontic technology has progressed. If the jaw is severely misaligned, this may be an option as it can move a jaw back or forward. This brace if fixed in the mouth and externally.

Upper Jaw Expander

This is used to correct an underbite. It is a wire frame appliance that sits on the upper palate. The expander is widened every night to stretch the jaw into the correct position.

Reverse Pull Face Mask

This appliance is also used to correct an underbite and is worn at night. Braces are fixed to the upper back teeth and a face mask is attached to pull the upper jaw back.

Cosmetic Dentistry

In mild cases of jaw misalignment, cosmetic dentistry is an option for adults. It will not correct the position of the jaw but it can make it less noticeable by reshaping the teeth or adding veneers or crowns.

Jaw Surgery

In very sever cases of jaw misalignment, surgery may be an option. An oral surgeon must do this. Plates, wires and screws are fixed into the jaw to correct the position. Surgery is only suggested for people whose jaw alignment affects their everyday life including eating, speaking and sleeping.

Jaw misalignment can be a severe and serious condition but there are many treatment options so that you don’t have to suffer. Book a consultation with one of our friendly dentists at Smile Hub Dental Clinic. You can contact us on 01 5253 888 or book online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my jaw suddenly misaligned?

There are a number of reasons why the jaw might suddenly move out of alignment. TMJ is a common condition that causes the jaws to move. TMJ is usually associated with genetics, teeth grinding, arthritis and an injury to the face or head. These can stop the teeth meeting which shifts the jaw out of position.

How do you know if your jaw is out of alignment?

It is difficult to speak
It is difficult to eat or chew
Trouble brushing your teeth
Bruxism or teeth grinding
Pain in the jaw
Do a clench test
Have a consultation from your dentist

What makes my teeth and jaw align correctly?

If your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is healthy
The health of the muscles around the jaw
The surface of your teeth and how they meet
If your teeth are worn down
If there is no pain when your bite down
If the teeth are secure and not loose

How can I fix my Misaligned Jaw?

Orthodontic treatment such as braces
Wearing a bite appliance to help the jaw relax and move into the correct position
Jaw Surgery to position the jaw in the correct place
Adjusting your bite to make your teeth meet if possible
Behavioural and relaxation therapy to make the joints relax

Can TMJ lead to movement in the jaw is untreated?

TMJ can be a serious condition and if left untreated can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw. This pain can become chronic and your jaw can even move out of place if it is not treated.