Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

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

Your Guide to Finding the Right GP: What Perth City Doctors Offer Today

Choosing a General Practitioner (GP) is one of the most important health decisions you’ll make. Luckily, Perth’s vibrant CBD now hosts a new generation of clinics that combine traditional bedside manner...

The Comprehensive Guide to Physiotherapy: Benefits & Techniques

It employs hands-on care, movement and advice to aid recovery and prevent further issues. Individuals of all stages of life utilize physiotherapy for pain, muscular strength, balance, or joint concerns...

What Can Be Funded by the NDIS? A Guide to Approved Supports

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to empower Australians with disability by providing funding for supports that improve independence, social participation, and overall quality of life. However, navigating...

What Causes Depression? Biological, Psychological, and Social Triggers Explained

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can impact every aspect of a person’s life—from sleep and energy levels to relationships and sense of self-worth. It’s more than just...

How to Choose the Right First Aid Kit for Your Workplace

Ever walked past your workplace first aid kit and wondered if that dusty box actually contains what you'd need in a real emergency? We know that feeling!  Most Australian business owners...

From White Belt To Warrior: How To Train Your Body For BJJ Endurance

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is as much a mental chess match as it is a physical grind. Whether you’re new to the mats or prepping for high-level competition, developing endurance is...

Your Guide to Finding the Right GP: What Perth City Doctors Offer Today

Choosing a General Practitioner (GP) is one of the most important health decisions you’ll make. Luckily, Perth’s vibrant CBD now hosts a new ge...

Why Every Mining Operation Needs a Robust Safety Management System

Mining is one of the backbones of the Australian economy, particularly in Western Australia. Back in 2019-20, mining contributed 10.4% of Australiaâ...

Australian Classic Literature Enjoys Resurgence

Welcome back to the good old days of storytelling! As the modern world becomes increasingly more demanding, returning to childhood favourites offers...

Building a Governance Model for Headless Content Management at Scale

Image by pch.vector on Freepik There's never been a better time to implement a headless content management system (CMS) to gain the flexibility and ...

Understanding Trade Insurance: Essential Protection for Businesses

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik In the current economic environment, trade insurance is an important element for companies trading both locally an...

Choosing the Right Timber for External Cladding

Timber cladding is one of those finishes that pulls double duty: it makes a building look warm and welcoming, and it quietly shields the frame from ...

Top Services Offered by Diesel Mechanics in Brisbane

Keeping a diesel vehicle running at its best takes more than the occasional oil change. When you invest in regular specialist care, you protect the ...

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring Professional House Removalists

Moving day should feel like the start of a new adventure, not the end of your patience. Yet once the settlement papers are signed and the champagne ...

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Managed IT Solutions and IT Services in Townsville

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, companies must adapt to embrace the transformation ahead. With an evolving technology landscape, mana...

Types of Catering You Should Consider for Your Next Event

Choosing the right type of catering service can elevate your event from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether it’s an elegant wedding, corporate func...

Understanding the Benefits of Split System Installation for Your Home

Climate control is essential to maintaining comfort in your home, especially during the extreme temperatures that many regions face. Whether you’r...

Best Aluminium Window Sliding Designs for Natural Light and Airflow

Bringing natural light and airflow into a space is one of the most efficient ways to create a healthy and comfortable home. In Sydney and across Aus...

Maximising Operational Efficiency: Electric Winch Hire Australia and Hydraulic Power Pack Hire Solutions

Image by jcomp on Freepik From urban construction sites and remote mining operations to coastal maritime facilities, specialised equipment solutio...

Navigating the System: Your Guide to Support Finding Work with a Disability Around Melbourne

Image by freepik Finding the right job can be a challenge for anyone, but it can feel particularly daunting when you're also navigating life with a ...

Say Goodbye to Draughts and Hello to Savings: Your Guide to Perth Window Replacement

Image by prostooleh on Freepik Are your windows looking worse for wear? Are you paying a hefty power bill due to sneaky draughts and poor insulation...

How to Choose the Right Horse Trailer for Your Riding Needs

Many horse owners travel long distances for riding lessons, competitions, or to move horses between properties. Having a safe and reliable trailer i...

Sydney Turf Installer for Instant Green Lawns and Long-Term Performance

Having a green lawn at home makes everything look better. Whether it’s the front yard, backyard, or a small patch beside the driveway, people in S...

Designing Better Living Spaces: Why New Kitchens in the Blue Mountains Are in High Demand

The Blue Mountains region is seeing a steady rise in home upgrades. According to recent housing data, kitchen renovations remain one of the most req...