Corrective jaw surgery sounds scary. However, it’s a common procedure that helps to correct problems with the way your upper and lower jaw (maxilla and mandible) align. If you’re experiencing problems with a misaligned jaw, you could notice jaw pain, headaches, facial fatigue and more. Corrective jaw surgery is a simple procedure that fixes this misalignment. Your orthodontist in Franklin, TN, can answer your questions regarding corrective jaw surgery and whether it’s right for you. The symptoms of misalignment are many, but some are more common than others.

1. Chronic Jaw or Joint Pain

Your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the “hinge” that connects your mandible to your maxilla. It’s this hinge that allows your mouth to open and close. You have one TMJ on each side of your face, and when something goes wrong, the result can be jaw misalignment. Disorders of the TMJ are often quite painful. You may experience discomfort in the area beneath your ears, or it may radiate throughout your entire facial structure. This makes it difficult to pinpoint the source. TMJ disorders may also cause annoying headaches that border on migraines. Pain is often one of the first indicators of a jaw problem.

2. Upper and Lower Teeth That Don’t Meet in the Front

Dental problems such as advanced gum disease or bone loss can affect the alignment of your jaw, causing shifts and changes. Often, these affect the way your teeth align, too. As a result, your upper and lower teeth may no longer come together in the front or the back when your mouth is closed. This is called malocclusion, and it may cause issues such as an open bite.

3. Consistently Dry Mouth

Jaw problems may make it difficult to breathe through your nose normally. To compensate, you may find yourself breathing through your open mouth. This can cause a condition known as dry mouth, which may contribute to faster tooth decay.

If you suspect you may need corrective jaw surgery in Franklin, TN, call Cool Water Orthodontics today. Our friendly representatives are happy to schedule a convenient time for you to come in to discuss your dental goals.