Malocclusion & TMJ
When your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, it’s called malocclusion. It’s more than cosmetic: a misaligned bite can stress your jaw joints and muscles and contribute to TMJ disorder.
At Better Sleep Mid-Ohio Valley in Parkersburg, WV, we often see jaw pain, clicking, and tension headaches caused by a bite that isn't working in harmony.
What Is Malocclusion?
Malocclusion means teeth are crowded, spaced, crooked, or your jaws don't meet correctly when you close your mouth.
Overbite
Upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
Underbite
The lower jaw juts forward.
Crossbite
Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
When teeth don't fit naturally, your jaw muscles work overtime to find a stable position every time you chew, swallow, or speak. That strain can cause spasms and uneven joint pressure. Learn more about TMJ disorder.
The Toll on Your Jaw Joints
A strained jaw position can displace the cushioning disc inside the joint, causing mechanical interference and pain.
- Clicking, popping, or grating when you chew, talk, or yawn
- Stiffness, or a jaw that gets temporarily stuck
- Achy temples, cheeks, and neck in the morning
- Tension headaches that start near your jaw joints
Left alone, joint tissue can become inflamed. TMJ splint therapy gently guides your jaw into a relaxed, protected position so tissue can heal.
Bite, Sleep, and Breathing
If your lower jaw rests too far back when you lie down, it can narrow your airway and contribute to snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.
Grinding or clenching during sleep is often the body trying to stabilize an uncomfortable bite or force a restricted airway open.
Treating the bite and joint together addresses the whole picture. Read about understanding bruxism.
Gentle, Modern Relief
Treating a bite-related jaw problem doesn't mean a painful smile overhaul. After advanced imaging, custom oral appliances can support your jaw, relieve muscle tension, and protect your teeth from nightly wear.
Common Questions
What is malocclusion?
It's when teeth are crowded, spaced, or crooked, or the upper and lower jaws don't meet correctly. Common types include overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
Can a bad bite cause TMJ?
A misaligned bite makes jaw muscles work overtime and can displace the cushioning disc in the joint, causing clicking, stiffness, and pain.
Do I need braces to fix bite-related jaw pain?
We focus on non-invasive, conservative solutions such as custom oral appliances that support your jaw and relieve muscle tension.
Related Topics
Take the Next Step
If a misaligned bite may be causing your discomfort, contact Better Sleep Mid-Ohio Valley in Parkersburg for a comprehensive consultation.
Take the First Step to Better Sleep
If you’re ready to get the restful sleep you deserve, it’s time to speak to one of our sleep professionals. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific needs. If you’re still unsure, take our short sleep quiz that identifies the most common sleep-related issues to see which ones you’ve experienced.