Can Orthodontic Treatment Relieve Jaw Pain?

If you struggle with frequent jaw pain, you may assume it’s something you simply have to live with. But in many cases, that discomfort is linked to how your teeth and jaw are aligned, and orthodontic treatment could offer real relief. While you might think of braces or aligners as cosmetic tools, they can also play a valuable role in correcting bite issues that contribute to chronic jaw tension or soreness. Understanding the connection between dental alignment and jaw pain is the first step in finding a long-term solution.

What Causes Jaw Pain?

Jaw pain can come from a variety of sources, but one of the most common is malocclusion, or a misaligned bite. When your teeth don’t come together properly, your jaw muscles and joints may have to work harder than they should. Over time, this imbalance can lead to stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull.

You might experience symptoms such as:

• Pain or soreness in your jaw, face, or ears
• Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
• Headaches or neck tension
• Difficulty chewing or biting down evenly

These issues can worsen if left untreated, but orthodontic care may offer an effective way to reduce strain and restore comfort.

How Orthodontic Care Helps with Jaw Alignment

Orthodontic treatment is about more than just straightening teeth. It also addresses how your teeth fit together, which directly affects the function of your jaw. By repositioning the teeth into a more balanced bite, orthodontics helps reduce pressure on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. For example, if your lower jaw shifts forward or backward to compensate for misaligned teeth, correcting that alignment can help your jaw rest in a more natural, relaxed position.

Orthodontic options that may help include:

• Traditional braces
• Clear aligners (such as Invisalign®)
• Expanders or retainers, depending on your specific needs

Your provider may also recommend treatment in combination with physical therapy, bite guards, or other supportive care.

What to Expect During Treatment

If you’re considering orthodontics for jaw pain, the process starts with a detailed consultation. Your orthodontist will evaluate your bite, jaw movement, and overall alignment to determine the root cause of your symptoms. Imaging or diagnostic scans may be used to create a precise treatment plan.

Treatment length varies based on your condition but typically lasts between 12-24 months. Throughout that time, your provider will monitor how your bite improves and how your symptoms respond. In many cases, patients report a noticeable reduction in pain or discomfort within the first few months of treatment, especially when combined with exercises or nighttime appliances to support the jaw.

Not All Jaw Pain Is Orthodontic

It’s important to know that not all jaw pain stems from alignment issues. Other causes may include stress-related teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, trauma, or infections. That’s why a comprehensive dental evaluation is key before starting treatment.

Your provider may work in collaboration with other specialists, such as a TMJ expert or oral surgeon, to verify you’re getting the most effective care for your specific condition.

You Don’t Have to Live with Chronic Jaw Pain

Living with jaw pain can affect your sleep, diet, and quality of life. But with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can find lasting relief. In addition to offering a straighter smile, orthodontic care can also bring much-needed balance and comfort to your bite and jaw.

If you’ve been dealing with persistent discomfort and suspect your bite may be the cause, schedule a consultation with an orthodontic professional. You may find that correcting your alignment is the key to relieving your discomfort.