man with jaw pain

Two common issues that people may encounter in and around the jaw and face include TMJ dysfunction and malocclusion. The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the hinge that connects the jaw to the skull, while malocclusions are defined as misaligned teeth. While both malocclusion and TMJ dysfunction can cause similar pain and discomfort, they are separate conditions. This post will cover more of the differences, signs and symptoms and treatment options for each.

Malocclusion, TMJ Defined

While similar, a malocclusion and a TMJ are different. A malocclusion is simply a misalignment of the teeth, or an imperfect positioning of the teeth, when the jaws are closed shut. A TMJ dysfunction or disorder, on the other hand, is defined as problems with the jaw and muscles in the facial area that controls the function of the joint.

With that being said, just how do malocclusions and TMJ dysfunction relate? It’s believed that malocclusion, or teeth misalignment, can eventually lead to issues with the TMJ. That’s because malocclusion is known to overwork jaw muscles, potentially leading to aches and pains in the face.

Signs and Symptoms

While doctors and dentists are unsure of what exactly causes TMJ dysfunction, there’s no mystery about the pain and discomfort that it has the potential to unleash on those affected. Signs and symptoms include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw and face
  • Difficulty opening the mouth, yawning, chewing or speaking
  • Clicking, popping or grating sounds when you open or close the mouth
  • Facial swelling
  • Earaches, toothaches, headaches, neck pain, hearing issues

TMJ dysfunction is more common in women than it is in men, and it’s most common in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40. It’s estimated that some 10 million Americans experience TMJ pain or discomfort.

Malocclusions can be under bite, over bite, transposition, cross bite, open bite or teeth spacing issues. Malocclusions, which are commonly hereditary, are divided into three classes – Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3. Other causes of malocclusion include childhood thumb sucking, facial injuries and tumors in the mouth and jaw. Symptoms often consist of:

  • Abnormal teeth alignment
  • Abnormal facial appearance
  • Pain or discomfort when biting, chewing or swallowing
  • Speech issues, such as lisps
  • Abnormal breathing through the mouth

Treatments

Because of the similarities between TMJ dysfunction and malocclusion, the methods used to treat each condition are somewhat similar and overlapping. Generally speaking, the most popular method of treatment is via the use of orthodontics or bite changing therapy. These may consist of braces, retainers, night guards, splints or more in an effort to restore an ideal bite.

While orthodontics are the most common way to treat such issues, in more dire circumstances, surgery may be necessary to repair, shorten or lengthen the jaw.

For more information on TMJ dysfunction and malocclusions, including the differences between them and how each condition is treated, contact Kanehl Dental today.