Can jaw be fixed with braces? The short answer is yes—braces are one of the most effective ways to correct jaw problems without surgery in many cases.
In this article, we’ll explore how braces work for jaw correction, what types of jaw issues can be treated, what the process involves, and when surgery may be required. We’ll also highlight how Balsam Dental Clinics can help you or your child achieve proper alignment and a healthier smile.
Can Braces Fix Jaw Alignment?
If you are wondering if: can jaw be fixed with braces, the answer is Yes, fixed braces can fix jaw misalignment in many cases. They work by applying consistent pressure to gradually move the teeth and jaw into proper alignment. However, the type and severity of the jaw issue determine whether braces alone will suffice.
Types of Jaw Problems Braces Can Treat
Braces can correct a range of jaw-related issues, including:
- Overbite – Upper teeth protrude too far over the lower teeth
- Underbite – Lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw
- Crossbite – Misalignment of upper and lower teeth
- Open bite – Teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed
- Deep bite – Excessive overlap of upper front teeth over lower teeth
How Braces Work to Align the Jaw – Can Jaw be Fixed with Braces?
Braces are more than just a tool for straightening teeth—they’re an advanced orthodontic system that can influence jaw development, alignment, and bite correction. Whether you’re dealing with an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, braces apply continuous, controlled pressure to guide both teeth and jawbone into optimal positions.
Here’s how braces actually work to align the jaw:
✅ 1. Shifting Teeth into Correct Positions
The brackets (attached to each tooth) and archwire (which connects them) apply gentle pressure over time. This causes the teeth to gradually shift through the bone into their new, correct positions. As the teeth move, the jaw’s alignment improves naturally—especially when the misalignment is caused by dental crowding or spacing.
✅ 2. Influencing Jaw Growth (Especially in Children)
In children and adolescents, the jawbone is still developing. Braces can be used to guide this growth in real time, correcting discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws before they become severe. Specialized appliances like palatal expanders or functional braces (e.g., Herbst appliances) can modify jawbone development in growing patients.
🩺 At Balsam Clinics, orthodontists use advanced imaging and growth forecasting to determine the perfect window for intervention.
✅ 3. Improving Bite Function and Facial Symmetry
When the jaws don’t line up, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it can cause chewing problems, TMJ pain, and even sleep disturbances. Braces help correct this by:
- Aligning the upper and lower arches
- Distributing bite forces evenly
- Correcting asymmetry in facial features due to jaw imbalances
✅ 4. Encouraging Proper Muscle and Joint Alignment
The muscles involved in chewing (masseter, temporalis) and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) adapt to the position of your teeth and jaw. When your bite is corrected with braces, your facial muscles and joints can relax into their intended alignment, reducing issues like jaw clicking, fatigue, or grinding (bruxism).
Supporting Devices That Enhance Jaw Correction
In complex cases, braces alone may not be sufficient to achieve full correction. Orthodontists at Balsam Clinics, Best Dentist for Veneers in Dubai, may incorporate:
- Elastics (Rubber Bands): Used to adjust bite and jaw position by connecting brackets across arches
- Bite Plates: Help open or close the bite, commonly used for deep bites
- Headgear: Primarily used in growing children to control jaw growth direction
- Functional Appliances: Devices like the Twin Block or Herbst appliance for skeletal adjustments
Each of these plays a unique role in supporting or redirecting jaw alignment efforts.
When Braces Alone Are Not Enough
Braces are incredibly effective—but they have limitations, especially in severe skeletal discrepancies. In adults, where jawbones have fully matured, moving the teeth may not be enough to correct misaligned jaw structures.
In such cases, a combined treatment approach is needed:
- Phase 1: Braces prepare the dental arches for surgery
- Phase 2: Orthognathic surgery repositions the jawbones to their ideal location
- Phase 3: Braces fine-tune the alignment post-surgery
This is often necessary for:
- Severe underbites or overbites
- Facial asymmetry
- Jaw misalignment causing sleep apnea or speech problems
🩺 At Balsam Clinics, surgical orthodontic cases are managed by a multidisciplinary team including oral surgeons and orthodontists, ensuring seamless care and minimal downtime.
Orthodontics vs. Jaw Surgery – What’s Right for You?
Choosing the right treatment depends on your age, jaw structure, and severity of the problem. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to guide you:
| Treatment Option | Best For | Involves |
| Braces Only | Mild to moderate jaw misalignment | Non-invasive correction using brackets, wires, and elastics |
| Braces + Surgery | Severe skeletal or asymmetrical jaws | Orthognathic surgery followed by fine-tuning with braces |
| Invisalign + Elastics | Cosmetic and minor alignment issues | Clear aligners with minor bite correction support |
📌 Consultation is Key
At Balsam Clinics, every patient undergoes a personalized assessment, including 3D scans, cephalometric analysis, and jaw function tests, before a treatment plan is recommended.
Age and Timing: When to Start Braces for Jaw Correction
Timing is crucial—especially for jaw alignment. Intervening during the growth phase (usually between ages 8–14) allows orthodontists to influence jaw development in real time.
👦 For Children & Teens:
- Early treatment can guide jaw growth
- Prevent the need for surgery later
- Shorter treatment duration
👩 For Adults:
- Braces can still fix dental misalignments
- Surgery may be needed for skeletal issues
- Results take longer but are highly effective
✅ Tip: If your child has visible jaw asymmetry, crossbite, or trouble chewing, book an early orthodontic screening at Balsam Clinics.
Duration of Treatment and What to Expect
How long will it take to align your jaw with braces? It depends on the severity of your case and whether surgery is involved.
| Case Type | Estimated Duration |
| Mild to Moderate Cases | 12–24 months |
| Severe Misalignment | 24–36 months (with surgery) |
🕒 You’ll typically need:
- Adjustments every 4–6 weeks
- X-rays or scans every few months
- Consistent oral hygiene and retainer use after treatment
⭐ At Balsam Clinics, we offer shorter treatment timelines using advanced orthodontic systems and digital planning tools.
Additional Devices Used with Braces for Jaw Fixes
Orthodontists may use:
- Palatal expanders – widen the upper jaw
- Herbst appliance – adjust lower jaw in kids
- Rubber bands/elastics – guide jaw position
- Headgear – support jaw growth in specific directions
Results: Before and After Jaw Alignment with Braces
Patients who undergo jaw correction with braces often report:
- A more balanced facial appearance
- Easier chewing, speaking, and breathing
- Reduction in TMJ pain and teeth grinding
- Boost in self-confidence
Balsam Clinics offers real before-and-after treatment photos to show how transformative braces can be.
Benefits of Fixing the Jaw with Braces
- Improved bite function and digestion
- Better oral hygiene and reduced cavity risk
- Enhanced speech and facial balance
- Prevention of long-term dental issues like TMJ
Risks and Side Effects
Like any treatment, braces have potential downsides:
- Temporary discomfort or mouth sores
- Risk of tooth decay if hygiene is poor
- Mild jaw soreness during adjustment
- Relapse if retainers aren’t worn after treatment
At Balsam Clinics, orthodontists guide patients with comprehensive aftercare plans to ensure long-lasting results.
Cost of Jaw Correction with Braces in the UAE
Costs can vary depending on severity, appliances used, and duration. Average estimates in the UAE:
- Braces for Jaw Correction: AED 8,000 to AED 20,000
- Surgical-Orthodontic Cases: AED 25,000 to AED 45,000+
Insurance coverage or installment plans may be available. Balsam Clinics offers free consultations and transparent pricing.
Why Choose Balsam Clinics for Jaw Alignment?
- Advanced diagnostics with 3D imaging and digital scans
- Customized treatment plans for each jaw type
- Experienced orthodontists and surgeons
- Multilingual support for UAE residents and expats
- Flexible payment plans and follow-up care
- Convenient location and patient-first approach
Book your free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
So, can jaw be fixed with braces? Yes—braces can effectively realign the jaw in many cases, especially when detected early. Even adults with complex jaw issues can benefit from combined orthodontic and surgical care.
1. Can jaw be fixed with braces alone?
Yes, in many mild to moderate cases, braces alone can effectively realign the jaw by shifting teeth and guiding jaw growth, especially in younger patients.
2. At what age can jaw alignment be corrected with braces?
The ideal age for jaw correction is between 8 and 14 years, during growth spurts. However, adults can still undergo treatment, often with additional devices or surgery.
3. How long does it take to fix jaw alignment with braces?
Treatment typically takes 12 to 24 months for moderate cases. Severe misalignment, especially with surgical involvement, may require up to 36 months.
4. Can jaw be fixed with braces in adults?
Yes, adults can benefit from braces for jaw correction. However, if the jawbones are fully developed and severely misaligned, orthognathic surgery may be recommended.
5. What jaw problems can be fixed with braces?
Braces can correct overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and deep bites—often improving both jaw function and facial aesthetics.
6. Do braces change jaw shape permanently?
Yes, braces can create long-term changes in jaw position and facial structure by guiding teeth and jaw movement. Retainers help maintain results.
7. Is jaw surgery always needed for alignment issues?
Not always. Many patients can have their jaw fixed with braces and appliances like elastics or expanders. Surgery is reserved for more complex skeletal issues.
8. What are signs that you need jaw alignment with braces?
Common signs include chronic jaw pain, difficulty chewing, facial asymmetry, bite issues, teeth grinding, and clicking sounds in the jaw joint (TMJ).
9. Can Invisalign fix jaw misalignment like braces?
Invisalign can treat mild to moderate alignment issues, especially when combined with elastics. Severe jaw problems usually require traditional braces or surgery.
10. Where can I get jaw correction treatment with braces in the UAE?
You can book an expert consultation at Balsam Clinics, where orthodontists offer personalized jaw correction plans using braces and advanced techniques.
If you’re struggling with jaw pain, bite problems, or facial asymmetry, it’s time to speak to the experts. At Balsam Clinics, our team is ready to give you a confident, balanced smile with modern orthodontic solutions tailored just for you.
Book your consultation now!
Resources:-
