The habit of chewing on one side of the jaw is an unhealthy eating habit, commonly seen in people with dental issues such as missing teeth on one side, tooth decay, broken or fractured teeth, loose teeth, or enamel erosion. So, what are the harmful effects of chewing on one side, and what can be done to fix it?
1. Consequence of chewing on one side
Under normal physiological movement, when we eat, both jaws work symmetrically and coordinate rhythmically to crush food. Food is cut and ground into small pieces before entering the stomach, ensuring a healthy digestive system. Moreover, the movement of chewing muscles during eating helps the jaw muscles and teeth develop normally. Therefore, the habit of chewing on one side of the jaw can lead to the following problems:
Uneven development of chewing muscles
Chewing on one side over an extended period causes the muscles on that side to overdevelop, while the opposite side becomes underused and contracts due to lack of activity. This imbalance can alter the facial structure, making one side appear larger than the other. In severe cases, it can even lead to nasal asymmetry, affecting overall facial aesthetics.
Teeth becoming weaker
The habit of chewing on one side can quickly weaken the teeth, as the teeth on the chewing side bear more stress and pressure. As a result, the chewing surfaces of these teeth wear down faster than normal. This excessive wear can lead to various dental problems, such as pulpitis, tooth decay, and pulp necrosis.
Meanwhile, on the opposite side, the teeth become weaker and more susceptible to the accumulation of tartar, which creates an environment for bacteria to attack, leading to tooth decay
Reduced food quality before reaching the stomach.
Chewing on one side not only causes jaw misalignment but also prevents food from being properly crushed before it enters the stomach. As a result, the stomach has to work harder to digest the food. Over time, this can weaken the digestive system and potentially lead to stomach pain.
Temporomandibular joint disorder
Chewing on one side can cause the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to wear down unevenly over time. If this condition persists for years, it can lead to symptoms such as misalignment of the bite, popping or clicking sounds when opening the mouth due to joint friction, and TMJ dysfunction. In more severe cases, individuals may experience pain on one side of the jaw while chewing or difficulty opening and closing the mouth normally.
2. Methods for Correcting Facial Asymmetry at Home
Patients with the habit of chewing on one side, leading to facial asymmetry, often feel self-conscious. For cases of mild asymmetry, it can be improved with simple at-home exercises to restore confidence. The following methods can help:
- The way you sleep can also play a role in correcting facial asymmetry. For example, if your face is tilted to the left, you should sleep on your left side. This positioning helps the left side of your face gradually become more defined. Once your face achieves better symmetry, it's best to sleep on your back to maintain that balance and reduce pressure on your internal organs.
- Facial massage at home is not just part of a beauty routine, but also a technique that helps reshape your face. This activity promotes better blood circulation, resulting in healthier, plumper skin that looks youthful and prevents sagging or wrinkles. However, consistency is key. Daily practice can lead to a more symmetrical face. Here’s a suggested massage technique:
- Use your hands to massage from the chin upwards and from the center outwards.
- Massage in circular motions in a clockwise direction around the forehead and jawline.
3. Can Braces Help Correct Facial Asymmetry Caused by Chewing on One Side?
Braces are a cost-effective solution for correcting facial asymmetry, offering significant results without the need for painful surgery. Instead, dental appliances are attached to the teeth to gradually move them into the correct position. As the teeth align into a proper bite, they can also subtly shift the jawbone, correcting mild asymmetry. The entire process of wearing braces to improve this condition typically lasts between 12 to 18 months.
Additionally, surgery can be used to directly reshape the jawbone. This is the most effective method for addressing severe facial asymmetry. In this procedure, parts of the jawbone are either added or removed and then stabilized, to create a more symmetrical and harmonious facial appearance. The total duration of a jaw surgery procedure is usually about 3 to 4 hours. However, the downside of this method is the high cost involved.
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