Modern Australian

What Is a Misaligned Jaw And How Can It Be Improved?

Your doctor or dentist has noticed some problems with your bite. Perhaps you have an underbite or overbite, or perhaps you have been having trouble with headaches and your doctor has diagnosed temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ). Or maybe you've noticed that you are snoring more, or are unhappy with your smile.

Perhaps these incidents are occurring more frequently, and you are beginning to question whether you may have a misaligned jaw.

What Is a Misaligned Jaw?

A misaligned jaw is exactly what it sounds like: the top and bottom jaw do not line up properly, causing misalignment. What are some symptoms of this problem? Some symptoms that you may have noticed that may be attributable to a jaw misalignment are:

  • * Bite problems, like an underbite or overbite
  • * Problems with jaw mechanics that cause difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • * Cosmetic concerns such as a crossbite
  • * Medical diagnoses such as excessive snoring, sleep apnoea or temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ)


Can These Problems Be Severe?

Yes, some of these problems can be severe. Improving your jaw alignment could certainly result in an improvement in your health, especially if you suffer from a medical condition linked to your jaw.

Should I Consult a Specialist?

Consulting a specialist for a first and second opinion is always a good idea. Consider contacting a qualified orthodontist or oral surgeon to be evaluated and to explore the treatment options that you have.

What Can Be Done To Improve a Misaligned Jaw?

There are many different treatments to improve a misaligned jaw. The least invasive is the use of a nighttime aligner to help straighten the teeth while you are asleep. These invisible and removable appliances are used for about ten months for the best results. If your misalignment is mild and involves your teeth or a bite problem, this simple and non-invasive solution may be just right for you.

Your misalignment may require braces or headgear to correct. In this case, the headgear and braces pull the lower jaw either back to correct an underbite, or forward to correct an overbite. These appliances are also often used at night to make corrections and make daytime living easier, if possible.

If your misalignment is caused by a skeletal problem with your upper jaw you may require an upper jaw expander. Also known as a palate expander, this appliance is a wire frame that is fitted to braces on the upper teeth and is used to widen the upper jaw until it matches the lower jaw.

If your alignment is severe these orthodontic treatments may not be able to give you the results that you are looking for. In this case, jaw correction surgery may be required. This is typically a lengthy process that begins with orthodontic treatment to begin the realignment process, then proceeds onto reconstructive jaw surgery where a maxillofacial surgeon will rebuild the jaws so that they align properly. This long and invasive process should only be considered in extreme cases.

Can I Just Live With My Jaw Misalignment?

This should be something you discuss with your trusted medical professional. The answer will depend on the underlying cause of your misalignment and what types of difficulties it is causing you. While you are deciding, be sure to concentrate on proper dental hygiene, as misalignment can sometimes make it more difficult to care for your teeth.

Jaw misalignment can be a troublesome problem with many different treatment options. Consult as many professionals as you feel comfortable with to determine exactly what the problem is and the best way to treat it. Try to begin with less invasive treatments if possible to bring your concerns to a quick and easy resolution.

Health Features

Top 10 Benefits of Practicing Taekwondo for All Ages

Taekwondo is more than just a martial art; it’s a way of life that offers profound physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Whether you're a child, adult, or senior, taekwondo can...

The Ultimate Guide to Daily Dental Hygiene: Tips for a Healthy Smile

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. While regular visits to your dentist are important, establishing an effective daily dental care routine is...

Sugar-Free Chocolate Treats: A Guilt-Free Indulgence

People are very conscious about their health and sugar-free chocolates are becoming a popular option. This is a delicious and very satisfying option. You're not sacrificing any indulgence. If you...

Importance of Gym Cleaning for Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty

A clean gym is essential for building customer satisfaction and loyalty. Members are more likely to return to a fresh and hygienic space.  Maintaining spotless equipment, floors, and common areas shows...

Exploring the Different Types of Physiotherapy: Musculoskeletal, Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Respiratory

Physiotherapy is a dynamic field that plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and restoration of physical function and wellness. It offers diverse specialties that cater to the various systems...

The Importance of Chemical Cabinets: Ensuring Safety and Compliance

In laboratories, industrial settings, and various workplaces where chemicals are handled, the importance of proper storage cannot be overstated. One of the critical components of safe chemical management is the...

Bulk Liquid Storage Tanks: Essential Solutions for Modern Industry

In industries where managing large quantities of liquids is a daily requirement, bulk liquid storage tanks play a vital role. These tanks are desi...

Bistro Blinds for Seasonal Changes: Adapting Your Outdoor Space

Bistro blinds are outdoor designs that can be adapted for seasonal changes. They warm up the environment by making it wind-free, wet-free, and sun...

Advantages of Using Digital Printing Services

The demand for quick, efficient, and high-quality printing solutions has seen remarkable growth in our modern, fast-paced world. This increasing nee...

Benefits of Professional Strata Management

Navigating the complexities of strata management can be a daunting endeavor for any strata property owner or committee member. Strata management inv...

The Hidden Benefits of Bundling Utilities with Moving Services

Moving can feel overwhelming with so many things to juggle. Hiring a moving company in Brisbane helps make it easier, but did you know you can make it...

Family Mediation: The Path to Resolution, Healing, and Lasting Solutions

In an era where family challenges are often met with emotional and financial strain, family mediation has quietly gained traction as a life-changing...

Surprise Party Ideas That Will Leave Your Guests Speechless

Throwing a surprise party is one of the most exciting ways to celebrate a special occasion. The thrill of keeping it a secret combined with the joy ...

“North of the River” Vs “Over the Bridge” – What’s in Brisbane’s ongoing North Vs South Feuds?

Greater Brisbane Australia’s largest capital city by land area, coming in at 15,824 square kilometers, and ranks number three worldwide. It has Au...

Income Stream Integration: 7 Ways to Earn Money Through Your Website

Whether you sell Vietnamese coffee, review Japanese gadgets, or rent Melbourne self storage, your website is more than just an online presence—it...

Top 10 Benefits of Practicing Taekwondo for All Ages

Taekwondo is more than just a martial art; it’s a way of life that offers profound physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Whether you're a chil...

Plasterboarding and Ceiling Repair: The PlasterX Advantage for Long-Lasting Results

Contacting professionals who are well-versed in the nuances of the task is essential to preventing headaches during plastering ceiling repair work. ...

Snake Catcher’s Life-Saving Advice: What to Do When You Encounter a Snake

Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world, and if you live here, you're already well aware of how dangerous these creatures...

The Best Dumplings in Melbourne

Melbourne offers the best dumplings in the world, with variety of tastes and styles. The perfect dumpling is boiled, fried, or steamed - the best ...

The Ultimate Guide to Daily Dental Hygiene: Tips for a Healthy Smile

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. While regular visits to your dentist are important, establishi...

Mixing Vintage and Modern: How to Create a Timeless Interior

Achieving a timeless interior that blends both vintage charm and modern sophistication can transform any home into a stylish, curated space. When do...

Sugar-Free Chocolate Treats: A Guilt-Free Indulgence

People are very conscious about their health and sugar-free chocolates are becoming a popular option. This is a delicious and very satisfying option...

The Most Scenic Sailing Destinations in Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are home to some of the world’s most breathtaking sailing destinations. With vast coastlines, pristine waters, and diver...

How Portable Cool Rooms Can Enhance Event Catering: The Perfect Solution for Outdoor Events

If you are holding an event outdoors, then there should be quality food; otherwise, a well-planned outdoor event will not be successful. Because c...