Not all people are blessed with a perfect, even bite. An uneven bite is characterised by clicking and popping when opening and closing the mouth. An uneven bite can cause your jaw to work overtime when chewing and speaking, leading to muscle fatigue and jaw pain.
Anatomy of the Jaw
For a better understanding, let's have a look at the anatomy of the jaw. The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) or jaw joints are a ball and socket joint located in front of the ears where the mandible (jaw bone) meets the skull. A small disc-shaped piece of cartilage rests between the joint allowing for smooth opening movements. While allowing you to open and close your mouth, the TMJ’s also allow movement from side to side and backward and forward. The movements are brought about by the muscles surrounding the joints.
Four acupuncture meridians used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (Gall Bladder, Stomach, Small Intestine and Triple Heater meridians) run though the TMJ – making it a very powerful focal point of the body. When the TMJ’s are misaligned often there will be a corresponding misalignment in the pelvis - mirroring the jaw. An imbalance in any of these meridians could potentially result in jaw pain.
Other Causes of Jaw Pain
Jaw pain can be a signal of a problem in the jaw itself due to trauma or direct injury, or the pain may be referred from other parts of the body. There are several dental and medical problems that are associated with jaw pain. Dental problems such as an abscess, cavities, broken teeth and fillings can all cause jaw pain. TMJ dysfunction/syndrome (i.e. stiff jaw muscles, limited movement/locking of jaw or clicking in the jaw) also cause jaw pain. Other symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include headaches and/or dull pain in or around the ears, cheekbones or neck.
Tension is the most frequent cause of jaw pain. Tension brought about by stress, anger or past trauma can lead to clenching of the teeth during the day and/or grinding of the teeth at night (bruxism). Clenching and grinding, as well as chewing with an uneven bite overwork the TMJ’s and can cause nerve irritation and further tightening of the muscles of the jaw and neck, resulting in further jaw pain. It is when the cartilage in the TMJ becomes worn or displaced through over or inefficient use that you start to hear and feel clicking or popping when opening and closing the mouth.
Treatments for Jaw Pain
For jaw pain a GP might usually refer you to a dentist, facial surgeon or ears, nose and throat specialist. Those who are seeking a natural and safe treatment for jaw pain might want to consider Bowen Therapy. While not a substitute for obtaining medical advice or diagnosis, Bowen Therapy is an effective, pain and drug-free alternative to conventional medical treatment. Below is an account of how Bowen was able to help with jaw pain:
M.N., St. Ives
A Bowen session promotes health and can alleviate pain. Not only does Bowen Therapy address jaw pain but it can address a wide variety of health issues including musculoskeletal conditions and other respiratory issues, hormonal imbalances and can help with nervous system related disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
Bowen Therapy consists of gentle, rolling movements over muscles, tendons, fascia and nerves which stimulate the body's natural healing ability and promotes physical and emotional well-being. Bowen has a particular procedure for the TMJ which is superb in addressing most causes of jaw pain.
If you are experiencing jaw pain and would like a natural and drug-free remedy try Bowen Therapy - call 02 9037 9433 or e-mail bowen@wholebeing.com.au to make an appointment in either Pymble or Crows Nest, Sydney. Most health funds issue rebates for Bowen Therapy.
Note/Disclaimer: Bowen Therapy and the information provided above are not to be used as a substitute for seeking medical advice for your condition. Please consult your medical practitioner if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned.