Have you ever tried to open your mouth only to hear a loud “pop” or “crackle” reverberate through your bones? Perhaps you often wake up with your teeth clenched together. No matter what minor acts lead up to it, a misaligned jaw can be quite problematic to deal with, especially if proper care is not taken. But the real question is, what does it mean if your jaw falls out of alignment, and what causes it? To find the answers to your questions, make sure to read this blog.
Causes of Misaligned Jaw
Jaw misalignment is not a rare condition. However, in most cases, it is caused by misaligned teeth. That is to say, conditions like an underbite, overbite, and crossbite are some of the most common reasons why your jaw can slip out of alignment. There are also other factors that play a major role, such as the following:
- Bruxism
Bruxism is a serious condition that occurs when a person frequently clenches or grinds their teeth. While some people are guilty of this during their sleep, others have a habit of doing so while awake. However, the act of gnashing your teeth together disrupts the jaw, leading to jaw misalignment. - Pre-existing Genetic Condition
Sometimes the reason your jaw goes out of alignment is because of a genetic impairment such as bite problems. - Facial Trauma
Accidents happen all the time, but suffering from a fall or injury that badly damages your facial structure can also have adverse effects on your jaw. - TMJ Disorder
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is when your jaw joint gets inflamed or damaged. The temporomandibular joint is a crucial part of your facial structure, as it attaches the lower jaw to the skull. If it gets damaged even in the slightest, it could lead to severe oral repercussions. - Dental Malocclusion
Malocclusion of teeth occurs when your teeth are crooked or overcrowded. This is usually triggered during one’s childhood in cases of thumb-sucking, tooth loss, or even from wearing ill-fitting braces.
How To Know If Your Jaw Is Out Of Alignment
The most prominent sign of a misaligned jaw is the sheer pain whenever you open your mouth. There are also other signs that people tend to ignore, some of which are mentioned below. However, it is important to keep in mind that the symptoms tend to vary based on the severity of one’s condition.
- Constant headaches or migraines.
- Pain radiates from the jaw to the head to your neck and shoulders.
- Obvious change in your facial shape or structure.
- Sore gums
- My jaw is feeling tight.
- Difficulty chewing food.
- Clicking or popping sounds coming from your jaw.
- Inability to open your mouth wide
- Weak or loose teeth
- Clenching or grinding teeth during sleep.
Treatment Options
Since jaw misalignment is a common dental concern, there are numerous treatment plans that help to shift your jaw back in place. Depending on how serious your case is, the orthodontist might suggest one of the following treatments:
- Braces
- Jaw Surgery
- Clear Aligners
- Jaw Expanders
- Dental Bridge
- Headgear Braces
Closing Word
It can be scary at first to realize your jaw has shifted out of alignment. But as long as you take proper oral care and consult a dental specialist, you might be able to reposition the jaw in its original place. For more information on jaw-related troubles, feel free to contact Rock Creek Oral Surgery at 832-930-7801 or visit us at 14119 Grant Road, Suite 140, Cypress, TX 77429, located near Jeremiah’s Italian Ice.