“Could jaw pain be related to a bite problem?”
I have been experiencing jaw pain. Could it be related to a bite problem?
3 Answers
Many problems that can cause jaw pain, and yes the jaw pain could related to the bite problem.
Yes, jaw pain can often be linked to bite problems, also known as malocclusion. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating bite issues that may be causing discomfort or pain. Misalignment of the teeth or jaw can place undue stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles, leading to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and even neck or ear discomfort.
How Bite Problems Can Cause Jaw Pain
TMJ Strain
When the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly, the TMJ can become strained. This joint connects your jawbone to your skull and is responsible for smooth, pain-free jaw movement. Misalignment forces the TMJ to work harder, often leading to inflammation, tenderness, and pain.
Muscle Tension
Bite issues can cause uneven pressure distribution, making certain jaw muscles overcompensate. This can lead to chronic tension in the jaw, face, and neck muscles, causing ongoing discomfort.
Wear on Teeth
An uneven bite can cause excessive wear on certain teeth, leading to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures. This wear can further aggravate bite problems, making jaw pain worse over time.
Treatment Options for Bite-Related Jaw Pain
Dr. Egan offers several treatment options tailored to alleviate pain and correct bite issues, including:
Bite Analysis and Adjustment: Through a detailed analysis, Dr. Egan can identify the misalignment areas and may recommend adjustments to the teeth or bite.
Orthognathic Surgery: In cases where jaw structure is significantly contributing to misalignment, corrective jaw surgery may be recommended to realign the bite, relieve pain, and restore function.
TMJ Therapy: Treatment may also include options like physical therapy, night guards, or other TMJ-focused therapies to relieve pain and support jaw health.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, we provide expert care to help you address jaw pain, often finding lasting relief through targeted treatment. If you're experiencing jaw discomfort, Dr. Jeremy Egan will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause and recommend a treatment plan that meets your needs.
How Bite Problems Can Cause Jaw Pain
TMJ Strain
When the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly, the TMJ can become strained. This joint connects your jawbone to your skull and is responsible for smooth, pain-free jaw movement. Misalignment forces the TMJ to work harder, often leading to inflammation, tenderness, and pain.
Muscle Tension
Bite issues can cause uneven pressure distribution, making certain jaw muscles overcompensate. This can lead to chronic tension in the jaw, face, and neck muscles, causing ongoing discomfort.
Wear on Teeth
An uneven bite can cause excessive wear on certain teeth, leading to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures. This wear can further aggravate bite problems, making jaw pain worse over time.
Treatment Options for Bite-Related Jaw Pain
Dr. Egan offers several treatment options tailored to alleviate pain and correct bite issues, including:
Bite Analysis and Adjustment: Through a detailed analysis, Dr. Egan can identify the misalignment areas and may recommend adjustments to the teeth or bite.
Orthognathic Surgery: In cases where jaw structure is significantly contributing to misalignment, corrective jaw surgery may be recommended to realign the bite, relieve pain, and restore function.
TMJ Therapy: Treatment may also include options like physical therapy, night guards, or other TMJ-focused therapies to relieve pain and support jaw health.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, we provide expert care to help you address jaw pain, often finding lasting relief through targeted treatment. If you're experiencing jaw discomfort, Dr. Jeremy Egan will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause and recommend a treatment plan that meets your needs.
Absolutely. It is a god idea to get the jaw evaluated for proper alignment.
