Ever experience a sharp pain in your jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth wide? While a perfect bite is rare, misaligned teeth and jaw problems can significantly impact your well-being. This article explores the concept of bite and how a mismatch can lead to jaw pain and other symptoms.
(Arrow points to the temporomandibular Joint)
The Two Bites: Skeletal vs. Teeth Bite
There are two key aspects to your bite:
- Skeletal Bite: This refers to the natural resting position of your jaw. It’s essentially your jaw’s preferred position.
- Teeth Bite: This describes how your upper and lower teeth meet when you close your mouth.
Harmony is Key: Why Your Jaw Matters More
Ideally, both the skeletal bite and teeth bite should be in harmony. When they’re not aligned, problems can arise. The dentist emphasises the importance of respecting the jaw’s natural position and adjusting the teeth bite accordingly. This approach minimises muscle strain and prevents issues like:
- Muscle contractions
- Muscle spasms
- TMJ problems
Symptoms of a Dysfunctional Bite
A mismatch between skeletal and teeth bite can manifest in various symptoms:
- Facial pain
- Jaw ache
- Muscle ache
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Lockjaw
- Tooth pain
- Chipping or worn teeth
- Teeth shifting and developing spaces
- Difficulty chewing
- Inconsistent bite patterns
These symptoms all point towards a common culprit: a dysfunctional bite.
Diagnosis: Deprogramming the Jaw
So, how do we diagnose a dysfunctional bite? Dentists can utilise a technique called “deprogramming the jaw.” This involves allowing the jaw to relax and find its natural position. Once in this position, the dentist can identify any interferences caused by the teeth and develop a treatment plan.
Important Note: The symptoms listed above can also be caused by other conditions. While a dysfunctional bite is a common culprit, it’s crucial to receive a proper diagnosis from a dentist with expertise in occlusion to determine the underlying cause of your jaw pain.
TMJ vs. Bite Disorder: Understanding the Difference
It is also important to understand the difference between TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues and bite disorders. While both can cause jaw pain, there’s a way to distinguish them:
- TMJ Loading Test: This test helps determine if the pain originates from the TMJ joint itself. If the test is positive, it suggests a TMJ issue requiring treatment by a maxillofacial surgeon.
- Negative Test: A negative TMJ loading test points towards muscle pain likely caused by a dysfunctional bite, which can be treated by a dentist that is trained in occlusion.
Remember: Consulting a qualified dentist is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of jaw pain and related issues.
Source : Kois Centre for advance dentistry
