Why is a Correct Bite So Important?

The teeth are part of a system that includes muscles and joints and has the potential to affect your head, neck and possibly even most of your body. That’s why neuromuscular dentists believe that neuromuscular occlusion – that is, getting your bite right – is crucial to achieving optimal results in virtually every type of major dental procedure and in treating many types of pain and dysfunction.

Many of us have come to accept the fact that “tension headaches” are just a part of life and we learn to live with them. But the muscles that control our jaw aare a complex network of muscles that run through the neck and head. The posturing muscles of the jaw – that is, the muscles that keep the jaw from falling open – are in the temple area of the head. When you’re not using your jaw, those muscles should be relaxed and barely working. But if they are forced to work overtime because your teeth don’t naturally fit together right, they can spasm and produce pain in the forehead area.

Bite problems can also be a factor in other types of pain or functional problems such as painful clicking or popping of the jaw joint, various types of head pain and neck pain, swallowing problems, and excessive snoring.

A neuromuscular dentist experienced in treating bite problems may be able to resolve the problem. In some cases, a resolution will require the collective efforts of your dentist and other health care professionals, such as your primary care physician; an ear nose and throat specialist; physical therapist; chiropractor; massage therapist; and so on.

If you are experiencing chronic and unresloved pain and dysfunction in your head and neck, consider a consultation with a neuromuscular dentist to determine if the cause may be a bite that isn’t right.