TMJ / TMD Therapy
Bite Correction
The way your upper and lower teeth come together affects not just comfort but the long-term health of your teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles. Addressing an irregular bite can reduce wear and alleviate associated symptoms.
What is bite correction?
Bite correction refers to a range of approaches aimed at improving the occlusion, the way upper and lower teeth meet when you bite and chew. An improper bite, or malocclusion, can develop for a variety of reasons: tooth loss, worn or shifted teeth, jaw development, or habits like clenching and grinding.
When teeth don't meet evenly, some teeth absorb more force than others. Over time, this uneven distribution can cause accelerated tooth wear, damage to restorations, jaw discomfort, and headaches.
Signs of a bite problem
Bite issues are not always obvious, but there are signs worth discussing with your dentist:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), particularly during sleep
- Jaw pain, soreness, or clicking and popping in the jaw joint
- Uneven or accelerated tooth wear, flat edges, chipped enamel, or worn cusps
- Headaches, particularly in the morning or after periods of stress
- Tooth sensitivity that doesn't have an obvious cause such as decay or gum recession
Approaches to bite correction
The appropriate approach depends on the severity and cause of the bite issue. Treatment options include:
Occlusal equilibration
Minor reshaping of biting surfaces to ensure teeth meet more evenly. This is typically done by selectively adjusting high spots identified during an examination, and is most appropriate for mild bite discrepancies.
Night guards (occlusal splints)
Custom-fitted appliances worn during sleep to protect teeth from the effects of grinding or clenching. They don't correct the underlying bite but can significantly reduce tooth wear and associated jaw discomfort.
Orthodontic treatment
For more significant bite issues, moving teeth into better alignment, through braces or clear aligners, may be the most appropriate course of treatment.
Restorations
When bite problems are linked to worn, missing, or damaged teeth, restoring proper tooth height and contact through crowns, onlays, or other restorations may be part of the plan.
Assessment during your regular exam
Bite assessment is a routine part of a comprehensive dental exam. Your dentist will look for signs of uneven wear, check how your teeth meet, and ask about any symptoms such as jaw discomfort or headaches. Catching bite issues early often means simpler treatment options.
Bite issues and TMJ
Bite problems can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, discomfort, clicking, or limited movement in the jaw joint. If you are experiencing jaw-related symptoms, ask about TMJ assessment at your next visit. Addressing the bite is often a component of managing TMJ concerns.
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