This is a question that we are asked daily. There are many factors which relate to this. We will discuss the most common.
Many of our patients come in complaining of their teeth hurting, their jaw aching or sore and their bite not feel right. All of these can be caused by your bite being off slightly.
We first look to see if the problem could be a tooth or gum tissue related. Then we look at the bite.
Many times we can adjust the bite (Equilbration or Occulsal adjustment), which removes very small areas on your teeth. This allow the jaw to function more smoothly. We do not change how far your teeth close, just make it easier for you jaw to move and not trigger spots which your jaw does not want to go to. Which in turn can cause grinding, sore teeth or a sore jaw.
Many times we also recommend a Bite Splint or an Occlusal guard to wear at night and prevents our patients from grinding their teeth.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Kent R Wildern DDS