People who experience noise, pain or restricted movement in the jaw joint often ask this question: if I straighten my teeth, will these complaints go away? This is a question that requires an honest answer. The relationship between the jaw joint and orthodontics is a topic that has long been debated in dentistry and does not have a single answer. As DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic, in Türkiye we avoid exaggerated promises on this subject and share what is known as it is.
How Does the Jaw Joint Work?
The jaw joint is a complex structure located in front of the ear that connects the lower jaw to the skull. It both opens and closes like a hinge and can slide forward and sideways. Between the joint surfaces there is a disc that acts as a cushion. The chewing muscles are located around it, and these muscles work thousands of times a day.
This complex structure explains why complaints cannot be attributed to a single cause. Problems originating from the muscles, the disc and the joint surface create different pictures.
What Are the Complaints?
- A clicking or grinding sound when opening or closing the mouth
- Pain or tenderness in the area in front of the ear
- Fatigue in the jaw muscles in the morning
- Not being able to open the mouth fully or a feeling of locking
- A feeling of pressure in the temple area and headache
- Getting tired while chewing
Common Causes
There may be more than one factor behind these complaints: a teeth clenching and grinding habit, stress and muscle tension, a history of trauma, conditions related to the joint structure, bite relationships and some systemic joint diseases. These factors usually play a role not alone but together.
Does Malocclusion Cause Complaints?
It is necessary to speak carefully here. In the past, malocclusions were thought to be the main cause of jaw joint complaints. Today, however, it is accepted that the relationship is not as direct as was thought. While many people with pronounced malocclusion experience no complaints at all, serious complaints may be seen in people whose bite looks normal.
This does not mean that the bite has no importance at all. Conditions such as a one-sided crossbite, a pronounced shift and a severe deep bite in particular can make the load on the joint asymmetric. However, it is not right to declare these solely responsible.
Is Orthodontics a Treatment Method?
The honest answer: orthodontic treatment cannot be presented as a treatment for jaw joint complaints. We recommend that you approach with caution any approach that gives a definite promise in this direction.
On the other hand, in some cases orthodontic correction may provide an indirect benefit by balancing the distribution of force. For example, correcting a crossbite that causes a functional shift may contribute to the joint working more symmetrically. However, this does not mean that the result can be guaranteed.
What Should the Sequence Be?
Starting orthodontic treatment while there are acute complaints such as active pain and locking is usually not appropriate. The aim is first to manage the complaints: protective guard applications, approaches aimed at muscle relaxation, habit management and, if necessary, referral to the relevant specialists. When the picture becomes stable, the orthodontic plan is evaluated.
If a Complaint Develops During Treatment
Throughout orthodontic treatment, the bite changes temporarily, and during this period temporary discomfort in the jaw area may be seen in some patients. This is usually part of the adaptation process. However, if the pain is increasing, you have difficulty opening your mouth or you experience locking, report it without waiting; the treatment plan is reviewed accordingly.
The Effect of Daily Habits
An overlooked factor in joint complaints is behavior during the day. Keeping the teeth constantly in contact, resting the jaw on the hand, chewing on one side, making gum chewing a habit and talking on the phone while holding it with the shoulder can strain the muscles. Noticing and correcting these habits often provides significant relief on its own.
The Role of the Teeth Clenching Habit
This is one of the conditions most frequently seen together with joint complaints. No intervention made without managing bruxism may provide lasting relief. For this reason, signs of teeth clenching are examined separately during the evaluation and a protective guard is planned if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
If there is no pain or limitation, not every sound requires treatment; an evaluation is recommended.
It cannot be guaranteed. It may provide an indirect benefit in some cases; this is not the aim of the treatment.
No. They serve different purposes; sometimes they are planned together.
The plan is reviewed. It is important that you report it without waiting.
A dental evaluation is the starting point; if necessary, a referral is made to the relevant specialists.
Let us investigate the source of your complaint together.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, noise or limitation, have a comprehensive evaluation. Contact us to book an appointment; let us examine your situation at DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic.
This content is for general information purposes. In jaw joint complaints, diagnosis and treatment are determined after the clinical examination; no guarantee of results can be given.
