Most bite problems — crowding, overbite, crossbite — can be corrected by moving teeth. But in some patients, the underlying issue is the jaw bones themselves: they're mismatched in size, positioned unevenly, or asymmetric between the left and right sides. Dr. Kim evaluates facial and jaw structure as part of every comprehensive exam, because a plan that only addresses the teeth can miss the actual source of the problem.
Signs of a jaw alignment concern
What causes jaw alignment issues?
Genetics is the leading factor — jaw size, shape, and growth pattern run in families, much like height or facial structure. An imbalance in how much the upper and lower jaw grow relative to each other is the most common underlying cause of a skeletal bite discrepancy, whether that shows up as an underbite, overbite, or asymmetry.
An untreated crossbite in childhood can also lead to a functional shift that, over years of growth, produces real jaw asymmetry — one more reason we take crossbites seriously at an early age. Occasionally, injury to the jaw joint contributes as well.
Our approach
Comprehensive Evaluation
We assess facial structure, jaw growth pattern, and bite function together — not just tooth position — to understand whether a skeletal component is involved and to what degree.
Growth Guidance (Children)
For children with a developing jaw discrepancy, appliances used during active growth can meaningfully influence how the jaws develop relative to one another.
About early treatment →Surgical Coordination
For adult patients with a skeletal discrepancy too significant for orthodontics alone, we coordinate closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for orthognathic (jaw) surgery, paired with orthodontic treatment before and after.
Jaw joint (TMJ) discomfort
Clicking, popping, or pain in the jaw joint deserves attention, not dismissal. While not every case of jaw discomfort is orthodontic in origin, bite alignment can be a contributing factor — and we'll evaluate it as part of your exam and refer you appropriately if a broader TMJ workup is needed.
Common questions about jaw alignment
My jaw looks uneven — is that actually fixable?
In many cases, yes, though the approach depends on the cause and severity. Mild asymmetry can sometimes be improved with orthodontics and, in children, growth guidance. More significant skeletal asymmetry may require coordination with a jaw surgeon. A comprehensive evaluation will tell you where your case falls.
Will I need jaw surgery?
Most patients don't. Surgery is reserved for skeletal discrepancies that are too significant to correct with orthodontics alone, typically diagnosed in adulthood after growth is complete. We'll always explore whether orthodontics can achieve your goals before recommending a surgical path.
Can my child's jaw growth actually be guided, or is that overstated?
It's real, within limits. Certain growth-guidance appliances, used during specific windows of active growth, can meaningfully influence jaw development — particularly for crossbites and some underbite cases. We'll be clear about what's realistically achievable for your child's specific situation.
What's the difference between an orthodontic problem and a jaw (skeletal) problem?
An orthodontic problem is primarily about tooth position — teeth that are crowded, gapped, or angled incorrectly. A skeletal problem involves the jaw bones themselves being mismatched in size or position. Many patients have a combination of both, which is why a full evaluation looks at both together.
Get a clear read on what's actually going on.
Jaw alignment concerns deserve a thorough look, not a guess. Come in at your scheduled time and let's evaluate the whole picture together.
Book a Smile Consultation