Our mouths, jaws, and gums are a delicate ecosystem. While good oral health can help us lead happier, less stressful lives, complications in our mouths can bring physical, psychological, and financial burdens. While straightforward dental issues like tooth decay can be easy to recognize—localized sensitivity around a specific tooth is a telltale sign—other conditions are less obvious. When severe, jaw misalignment can be a serious concern that requires dental intervention. Here are some of the most prevalent signs you should consult your dentist for potential jaw misalignment.
Pain in the Temple
A serious misalignment of the jaw will often be felt around the jaw joint. Chronic pain in the jaw joint is known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome. The jaw joint is located in the back of the mouth, near your neck. If you feel pressure or soreness behind your temples, it could be a sign of jaw misalignment or TMJ.
Jaw Tightness
If your jaw constantly feels tight, and you struggle to open and close it regularly, jaw misalignment could be the culprit. Jaw misalignment is often related to TMJ, which is frequently implicated in cases of jaw tightness.
Cheek Pain
Though the primary structural issue causing jaw misalignment often originate in the jaw joint, the pain can radiate outward. It’s not uncommon for people with jaw misalignment to feel soreness and tenderness in their cheek muscles.
Trouble Eating
Eating requires us to use our jaws more than any other activity. When we eat, our upper and lower sets of teeth are in constant movement. This puts a lot of pressure on our jaw joint. In fact, it’s the fulcrum of the entire act of eating. If you have trouble with the constant opening and closing of the jaw required during meals, you could be dealing with jaw misalignment.
Because of the stress the act puts on the jaw joint, eating can cause individuals with jaw misalignment or TMJ to experience significant, even debilitating pain. This is one of the most serious symptoms of jaw misalignment. Those who find themselves in pain every time they sit down to eat should reach out to our office right away. We can realign your jaw and help relieve your pain. Schedule an appointment today.
Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467
