This can arise due totemporomandibularjoint (TMJ) disorder, as well as trauma or dental issues such asmalocclusion.
The severity of a crooked jaw varies.
They occur when there are problems either with the joint itself or the surrounding muscles or ligaments.
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For instance, healing can be uneven following a fracture of the mandible or maxilla, undermining their alignment.
A congenital issue, termed hemifacial microsomia, most commonly affects the jawbones.
It leads to irregularities on one side of the face (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral).
Many syndromes result in midface deficiencies, with small upper jaws that cause severe malocclusion.
A crooked jaw is also associated withcleft palateand lip.
However, most cases are minor and asymptomatic.
When jaw misalignment is minor, people may be asymptomatic.
More severe cases of crooked jaw affect your ability to talk, chew, drink, and breathe.
Malocclusions that affect speech can impact a child’s learning and development.
If youre experiencing symptoms of misalignment, you should seek medical care.
How Is a Crooked Jaw Diagnosed?
The first step in getting a diagnosis is typically being referred to an orthodontist.
The orthodontist will usually take X-rays and make models of your teeth.
Treatment will then be planned based on the teeth models and X-rays.
This surgery aims to reshape the upper or lower jaw to properly line everything up.
Orthodontic treatment generally follows after acute TMD symptoms have been managed.
Over timetypically 18 months to two yearsthe pressure put on the teeth and jaw promotes a healthier alignment.
Dentists may also consider reshaping and resurfacing teeth to help correct the bite.
In some cases, surgery to remove certain teeth can help with crowding.
Some techniques can help you to treat symptoms of an uneven jaw naturally.
There is limited research on the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation in treating TMJ disorders.
It can also lead to tooth decay and loss and have a mental health impact.
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