Misaligned Teeth Could Be the Source of Your Jaw Pain

Severe jaw pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to eat, speak and perform daily activities comfortably. While there can be various causes of jaw pain, one often overlooked factor is misaligned teeth. Your teeth’ alignment is crucial to your jaw’s overall health and function.

Dental Occlusion and Jaw Alignment

Dental occlusion refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite. When your teeth are misaligned, the forces exerted during biting and chewing are distributed unevenly, leading to excessive strain on specific areas of your jaw joint (temporomandibular joint, or TMJ). This imbalance can result in jaw pain, muscle tension and headaches.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

TMD affects the TMJ and can be caused by misaligned teeth. The misalignment stresses the joint, leading to inflammation, muscle spasms and jaw pain. Common symptoms of TMD include jaw clicking or popping, difficulty opening or closing the mouth and pain that radiates to the shoulders, neck and face.

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Pain

Misaligned teeth can also contribute to bruxism or teeth grinding. Bruxism often occurs unconsciously during sleep, leading to jaw pain and tooth damage. Misaligned teeth can exacerbate this condition, as the grinding motion is an attempt by the body to find a comfortable position for the jaw.

Finding Relief for Jaw Pain

If you are experiencing jaw pain and suspect that misaligned teeth may cause it, it is essential to consult a qualified dentist. A professional evaluation will help identify the underlying issues and determine the best treatment option.

Possible treatment options for misaligned teeth and associated jaw pain include:

• Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or clear aligners can correct the alignment of your teeth, ensuring proper dental occlusion and relieving strain on the jaw joint.
• Dental Restorations: In some cases, dental restorations such as dental crowns or veneers may be used to reshape the teeth and improve their alignment, alleviating jaw pain.
• Bite Splints or Mouthguards: If teeth grinding contributes to your jaw pain, a custom-fitted bite splint or mouthguard can help protect your teeth and reduce muscle tension.

We Can Help Relieve Your Jaw Pain

If you suffer from jaw pain, do not leave misaligned teeth unchecked. Addressing misaligned teeth can alleviate jaw pain, enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Do not delay seeking treatment – take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy mouth by contacting Sacramento Emergency Dentist today.