Bite Causing Jaw Pain
Bite Causing Jaw Pain?
If you’ve been following our jaw series, you know we cover multiple aspects of jaw health and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) assessments. One of the key factors we consider, based on insights from dental professionals, is occlusion—how the upper and lower teeth align and wear down over time. While we don’t treat dental issues, we look for signs that may indicate a need for dental referral.
Assessing Dental Occlusion
When we assess occlusion, we observe how the top and bottom teeth sit together. Proper alignment is crucial for a balanced bite and can prevent excessive strain on the jaw. Here’s what we look for:
Alignment of Top and Bottom Rows: We observe if the top row sits evenly over the bottom row or if there’s an uneven overlap. For example, if the bottom teeth sit outside the top teeth, it may indicate the need for a mouth guard or further evaluation by a dentist.
Lateral Slide Check: As the patient moves their lower jaw side-to-side, we watch for proper contact with the canines. Ideally, the bottom canines should make contact with the upper canines before any other teeth, with a slight separation at the back. This smooth slide indicates good occlusion.
Signs of Wear on Canines: Flattened or worn-down canines can suggest an imbalance in the bite, often due to grinding or clenching. This can add stress to the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ symptoms, signaling that a mouth guard or occlusal adjustment may be beneficial.
Achieving long-term relief from TMJ issues often requires a collaborative effort between us and dental professionals. Even with the best muscle work and adjustments, jaw alignment can’t fully improve without addressing any occlusal issues. Working with a dentist who can help adjust or protect your bite can make all the difference in managing TMJ dysfunction.
If you know of a dentist who might be interested in partnering with us, we’d love to connect! A team approach helps us deliver comprehensive care and can provide lasting relief for TMJ and jaw discomfort.