Signs of a Severely Misaligned Jaw & How Surgical Orthodontics Can Help

Written by Dr. John Eggert —

November 4, 2025

Dr. John Eggert graduated from the University of Toronto in 1994 as an orthodontist. He holds a fellowship with the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. 

A misaligned jaw isn’t just a cosmetic concern—it can lead to chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and long-term oral health problems. If left untreated, a severely misaligned jaw can affect your overall well-being. Fortunately, Surgically Assisted Orthodontics at The Wireworks offers an effective solution for patients struggling with jaw misalignment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the signs, complications, and treatment options available for a misaligned jaw, helping you understand when it’s time to seek professional care.

Understanding Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment, also known as malocclusion, occurs when the upper and lower jaws do not fit together properly. This condition can be caused by genetic factors, injury, or poor oral habits. While minor misalignments may not require intervention, severe cases can lead to significant health issues.

Common Causes of Jaw Misalignment

  • Genetics: Inherited traits can lead to irregular jaw growth.
  • Thumb Sucking or Prolonged Pacifier Use: These habits can alter jaw development.
  • Facial Trauma: Accidents or injuries may cause improper healing, leading to misalignment.
  • Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Dysfunction in the TMJ can contribute to jaw misalignment.

Signs and Symptoms of a Misaligned Jaw

Recognizing the symptoms of a misaligned jaw is crucial for early intervention. If you experience any of the following issues, it may be time to consult a specialist at The Wireworks.

1. Chronic Jaw Pain or Discomfort

Persistent pain in the jaw, face, or surrounding muscles can indicate misalignment. This discomfort is often exacerbated by chewing or speaking.

2. Difficulty Chewing and Biting

A misaligned bite can make it challenging to chew food properly, leading to digestive issues and nutritional deficiencies.

3. Facial Asymmetry

A noticeable imbalance in facial structure may result from uneven jaw development.

4. Frequent Headaches and Ear Pain

Jaw misalignment can place excessive strain on facial muscles, leading to tension headaches and earaches.

5. Clicking or Popping Sounds in the Jaw

If you hear clicking or popping noises when opening or closing your mouth, it could be a sign of a TMJ disorder linked to jaw misalignment.

6. Speech Difficulties

Severe misalignment may impact speech clarity, making it difficult to pronounce certain words.

Complications of an Untreated Misaligned Jaw

Ignoring a severely misaligned jaw can lead to long-term health issues, including:

  • Excessive Tooth Wear: Uneven pressure on teeth can cause enamel erosion.
  • Sleep Apnea: Misalignment may contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.
  • Chronic TMJ Pain: Ongoing discomfort in the jaw joint.
  • Increased Risk of Cavities and Gum Disease: Poor alignment can make oral hygiene more difficult.

How Surgical Orthodontics Can Correct Jaw Misalignment

For severe cases of jaw misalignment, Surgically Assisted Orthodontics provides a permanent solution by realigning the jaw structure. This procedure combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to correct alignment issues.

Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

✅ Improved facial symmetry and aesthetics
✅ Enhanced chewing and digestion
✅ Reduced jaw pain and TMJ discomfort
✅ Clearer speech and better oral function
✅ Long-term oral health benefits

Why Choose The Wireworks for Surgical Orthodontics?

At The Wireworks, we specialize in advanced orthodontic treatments using cutting-edge technology to provide precise and effective results. Our Kinetica 3D Onsite Digital Lab ensures customized treatment planning for optimal jaw correction.

Additionally, we offer Fixed Orthodontic Appliances to aid in the realignment process, ensuring comprehensive care from diagnosis to post-treatment maintenance.

Book a Consultation at The Wireworks

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a misaligned jaw, early intervention is key to preventing further complications. Our experts at The Wireworks are ready to assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Book a free consultation today!

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