Yes, braces can help correct jaw alignment issues in many cases. They work by gently shifting your teeth, which can also improve how your upper and lower jaws fit together. When teeth are misaligned, it often affects your bite and can lead to jaw pain, uneven wear, or difficulty chewing.
At Washington Orthodontics, we see a range of alignment concerns—overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. For many patients, braces combined with elastics or other appliances are enough to guide the jaw into a healthier position over time.
Some jaw problems, however, come from the structure of the jaw itself. In those situations, braces may be part of a larger treatment plan that could include orthopedic appliances or jaw surgery.
Types of Jaw Misalignment Braces Can Help With
Braces are often recommended for several common types of jaw misalignment. The goal is to bring your bite into balance so your teeth meet properly and your jaw functions without strain or discomfort.
Young patients may benefit from growth modification, while adults might need a combined orthodontic and surgical approach. The best way to know what works is a detailed consultation. Dr. Moon uses 3D scans and bite analysis to create a plan that fits your condition and goals. Learn more about the benefits of braces for kids and how early treatment can set the foundation for lifelong oral health. Here are a few examples of jaw misalignment braces can help with:
Overbite
This happens when the upper front teeth stick out too far over the lower teeth. Braces can help move the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward for a better fit.
Underbite
In an underbite, the lower jaw extends past the upper jaw. Braces may be paired with elastics or other appliances to help shift the lower jaw back or guide the upper jaw forward.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth instead of in front. Braces help move teeth into their proper position, which also relieves uneven pressure on the jaw.
Open Bite
This type of misalignment leaves a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Braces can help close the gap by moving teeth vertically and encouraging better jaw movement.
Mild and moderate cases often respond well to braces alone. In more complex situations, additional treatment may be needed, but braces still play a central role in the process.
When Should You Get Braces for Jaw Alignment?
Jaw misalignment isn’t always obvious at first. Some people notice it because of jaw pain, popping, or headaches. Others don’t realize there’s a problem until it shows up in how their teeth fit together, or how their smile looks in photos. Braces can help at almost any age, but timing makes a difference—especially when jaw growth is still happening. You may want to consider braces for jaw alignment if you notice:
Difficulty biting or chewing evenly Jaw shifting or clicking when you open and close your mouth Chronic tension or soreness in the jaw or neck Teeth that don’t line up properly when your mouth is closed Facial asymmetry or a protruding upper or lower jaw
Early treatment during the teenage years can guide jaw growth and prevent the need for surgery later on. But even for adults, correcting jaw alignment can reduce pain, improve function, and enhance your overall facial balance. If you’re wondering whether insurance can help cover the cost of treatment, here’s what you need to know about braces insurance coverage in Washington.
When Braces Alone Aren’t Enough
Braces are effective for many jaw alignment problems, but there are times when more advanced treatment is needed. Some issues go beyond tooth position and involve the actual shape or size of the jawbone. In these cases, braces alone might not achieve the full correction needed for a balanced bite. Here’s when additional treatment might come into play:
Severe jaw misalignment
If the upper and lower jaws have a large size or positional difference, correcting the bite may require orthognathic surgery. Braces are usually used before and after surgery to fine-tune tooth alignment.
Jaw growth problems in kids and teens
For younger patients, growth modification appliances like expanders or headgear can help guide jaw development. These tools are often used alongside braces to prevent future bite issues.
TMJ-related concerns
If misalignment is contributing to chronic jaw pain, popping, or locking, your orthodontist may work with other specialists to create a broader treatment plan. Braces can help relieve some of the pressure caused by a bad bite, but not all TMJ issues are resolved through orthodontics alone.
What to Expect if You’re Getting Braces for Jaw Alignment
Treating jaw alignment with braces takes time, but the process is straightforward when you know what to expect. Most treatments follow a step-by-step plan that gradually improves how your bite fits and how your jaw feels day to day. Here’s what the typical journey looks like:
Initial Consultation At Washington Orthodontics
We start with digital scans, X-rays, and a bite assessment. Dr. Moon uses this information to map out a treatment plan tailored to your jaw alignment and long-term goals.
Braces Placement
Brackets are attached to your teeth, and wires are used to apply gentle pressure over time. In some cases, you’ll also wear rubber bands (elastics) that connect your upper and lower braces to help guide your jaw into a better position.
Not sure which type of braces is right for your needs? Check out our comparison of traditional vs. lingual braces to see which one fits your lifestyle and goals.
Regular Adjustments
You’ll come in for check-ups every few weeks. These appointments help keep your teeth and jaw moving in the right direction and allow for any necessary tweaks to your treatment.
Monitoring Progress
Throughout treatment, Dr. Moon tracks how your jaw is responding. If additional support is needed—like expanders or bite correctors—those may be added to your plan.
Retainers After Treatment
Once your braces come off, you’ll wear retainers to help keep your bite stable and prevent shifting. For jaw alignment cases, retainers are especially important to maintain the new balance you’ve achieved.
Treatment length varies depending on the severity of the issue. Some jaw alignment cases take 12–18 months, while others may take longer if additional appliances or surgery are involved. Either way, our team will guide you through every step.
Why It’s Important to Fix Jaw Alignment Early
Jaw alignment problems don’t just affect how your smile looks—they can also lead to long-term discomfort and health issues if left untreated. The earlier you address them, the easier it is to correct the problem and avoid more complex treatment later on. Here’s why timing matters:
Less invasive treatment: In younger patients, the jaw is still growing. That means orthodontists can guide jaw development using appliances or braces without needing surgery. Early treatment is often simpler and more effective.
Prevents wear and tear: Misaligned jaws can cause uneven pressure when chewing. Over time, this can wear down teeth and lead to fractures, gum recession, or tooth loss.
Reduces pain and tension: Jaw misalignment can strain the muscles in your face, neck, and shoulders. People with bite issues experience chronic headaches, jaw pain, or difficulty opening their mouths fully.
Improves function: A well-aligned jaw makes it easier to bite, chew, and speak clearly. It also supports better breathing and can even help reduce snoring in some cases.
Supports facial balance: Jaw alignment can influence your profile and facial structure. Treating issues early can help ensure a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. Curious about the investment? Here’s a breakdown of how much braces cost in Bellevue and what affects the total price.
If you or your child is showing signs of jaw misalignment, scheduling a consultation is a smart first step. At Washington Orthodontics, we’ll walk you through your options and make sure you have a plan that fits your needs and timeline.
Thinking About Jaw Alignment? Start With a Consultation
If you’re dealing with jaw discomfort, bite issues, or concerns about how your smile fits together, braces might be the right solution—and the first step is finding out what’s really going on.
At Washington Orthodontics, Dr. Moon takes a comprehensive approach to every case. Using digital imaging and advanced diagnostics, we’ll assess how your teeth and jaw work together and recommend the treatment that fits your needs best.
Whether braces alone can do the job or you need a more involved plan, we’ll walk you through it clearly, step by step. You don’t have to guess your way through jaw pain or alignment concerns. Worried about the cost? We offer flexible braces payment options to make treatment more affordable for families at every stage. Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced smile.
