The Science Behind the Bite

The acts of biting and chewing are so automatic that many people rarely stop to think about the mechanics behind them.

2012-12-20

PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 20, 2012 (Press-News.org) The acts of biting and chewing are so automatic that many people rarely stop to think about the mechanics behind them. These mechanics - including the proper actions of bones, nerves, muscles, and teeth - work together to make basic functions happen without effort. Unfortunately, even the slightest problem with one part of this intricate network can result in painful symptoms and a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Inner Workings of the Jaw

Your jaw is a hinged joint with the capacity of moving up and down, and side to side. The movement of the jaw is made possible by a group of four muscles: tensor tympani, tensor velipalatini, mylohyoid, and the digastrics.

Through these muscles run the five cranial nerves: trigeminal, facial, glossopharyngeal, vagus, and hypoglossal. These nerves are responsible for all of your mouth's motor functions. The trigeminal nerve in particular is responsible for the movement of your jaw as well as any sensations running through it.

Even minor stress placed on facial muscles from a misaligned bite will put pressure on your cranial nerve bundle. The end result may be both localized and systemic issues ranging from jaw pain and swelling to chronic headaches and even digestive issues.

A Misaligned Bite

A misaligned bite may be caused by TMD alone. It may also be caused by malocclusion such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite, or even bad dental work. These later problems can eventually lead to TMD, but are not always caused by it.

To detect issues with your bite, you need to see an experienced dentist for examinations every six months. Choosing a dentist who offers general as well as orthodontic and neuromuscular dentistry services is ideal. A dentist who offers this type of comprehensive practice will best be able to detect all manner of bite issues and customize a treatment option that restores alignment, strength, and optimal function to your smile.

For more information about the importance of a properly aligned bite, please visit the website of Philadelphia neuromuscular dentist Lindsey Marshall, DMD at www.lindseymarshall.com.

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