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Parma Heights
(440) 845-0700
Garfield Heights
(216) 475-0505
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The teeth and jaw joints are part of a system of structures
referred to as the masticatory system. Consisting of four
parts (the teeth, gums, jaw muscles, and jaw joints),
all parts of this system interact with each other part
of the system. Breakdown may occur in these parts as a
result of microbes (tooth decay, gingivitis) or excessive
mechanical stress. Excessive mechanical stress may occur
from outside trauma, such as an automobile accident, but
more commonly occurs when the upper and lower teeth don't
fit together where the jaw muscles best close the jaw.
This condition defines a bite problem. It may result in
damage to, or pain in, the teeth (worn, loose, or cracked
teeth), the gums (receding gums), the jaw joint (jaw noise
or pain) or the jaw muscles (headaches, sore jaws).
Treatment of this disorder should first be aimed at reducing
the cause of the problem (mechanical stress) to a level
which will prevent further structural damage or eliminate
pain. Then, repair of damaged structures may be done.
Depending upon the case, this may be accomplished by altering
the bite, restoration of teeth or TMJ surgery.
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