Why Can’t I Chew Right?
March 23, 2018
Do you have trouble chewing properly? Do you feel like it takes you a long time to eat, or have you noticed discomfort or jaw pain when you are eating? These can be signs of a bite misalignment. Many people experience these symptoms when their teeth fail to align properly. There can be several causes of misaligned teeth, including genetics, gum disease, crooked teeth, and facial bone structure. However, Dr. Kiya Green offers several treatments for bite misalignment, including an occlusal adjustment in Matthews, NC. Here is an overview of this procedure and the ways it can help people with bite issues.
What Is a Misaligned Bite?
A bite misalignment means the jaw does not close in a properly straight fashion. There are several signs of a misaligned bite that can manifest during opening or closing the mouth, including:
- Pain
- Neck aches
- Popping
- Teeth grinding
- Clicking
- Uneven wear on tooth enamel
- Cracked teeth
- Persistent headaches
- TMJ
How an Occlusal Adjustment Fixes Bite Misalignment
During an occlusal adjustment, Matthews NC Periodontist Dr. Green uses a special mylar paper to determine which areas of the teeth are preventing the jaw from aligning and closing correctly. Once she knows where the problems are, she can make slight occlusal adjustments to smooth those areas of the teeth so they no longer inhibit proper jaw movement. Occlusal adjustment can include small changes to natural teeth, fillings, and restorations.
Call Today to Find Relief From Jaw Pain
Our dental office provides numerous treatments, from simple cleanings to laser treatments for gum disease, dental implants, and occlusal adjustment. If you feel pain when you chew or notice popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, you can schedule an appointment to check for bite misalignment. Once Matthews, NC periodontist Dr. Green knows what is causing the issues with your jaw, she can make precise occlusal adjustments to realign your bite. To learn more about the process and set up a consultation, call our office at (704) 815-5440 or visit our website to schedule an appointment today.