The width of the jaw may even be off. No matter how your jaw grows unevenly, it can pose a number of problems.
Facial Imbalance
Facial symmetry is often a coveted feature of beauty. An uneven jaw can cause an imbalance in your appearance, which can lead to self-consciousness.
Uneven Bite
When your jaw grows unevenly, your teeth don't line up properly. Any misalignment, even a minor one, can lead to uneven wear on your teeth. Too much wear on any teeth can destroy tooth enamel, exposing dentin, which can lead not only to sensitivity, but can also raise your chances for tooth decay and infections. More pressure on a specific area of teeth can also loosen them, which could ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Poor Jaw Movement
An uneven jaw may also hinder jaw movement. This can affect your ability to eat certain foods, as you can't open your mouth wide, as well as chew properly. A poorly functioning jaw can also affect your ability to speak.
Treatment Required
No matter the severity, an uneven jaw needs to be corrected. Some jaws can be fixed with specialized treatments. More severe cases need reconstructive oral surgery. This surgery requires the jaw to be reset.
Depending upon the surgery, wires or plates and screws are used to hold the jaw in place as it heals. While the surgery is major, the results and benefits are much better for your oral health.
If your jaw is uneven, treatment is needed. Contact our office to discuss your options and see if oral surgery is the right choice for you.