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The Different Causes of Jaw Pain
Jaw pain may point to a dental issue such as a toothache, TMJ Disorder or, potentially, a more serious condition.
TMJ Disorders (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)
TMJ Disorder is one of the most common causes of jaw pain. Your jaw and your skull's temporal bones (located just below your temple, in front of your ear) are connected by your temporomandibular joint. This hinge plays an integral role in your daily life, allowing you to chew, speak and breathe.
TMJ Disorders develop when there is an issue with your jaw and facial muscles. If left untreated, this condition may cause you to lose movement in your jaw.
Some of the common causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Jaw injuries
- Certain illnesses or conditions such as arthritis
- Misalignment of the jaw
- Inflammation in the muscles surrounding your jaw
The symptoms that you may have with TMJ Disorder may include:
- Constant headaches
- Problems with vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Dizziness
- Aches or pains around your jaw, face or ears
- Popping or locking in your jaw
If you are suffering from issues related to TMJ disorders then your dentist may be able to recommend exercises or other next steps to help treat it. Sometimes, prescription drugs or surgery may be required to address the issue.
Infectious Diseases
Though we take many routine vaccines in childhood that have fortunately gotten rid of diseases, it’s still possible to get diseases that can cause jaw pain and other symptoms.
Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can cause your jaw muscles to stiffen or feel tight. This serious condition can result in spending weeks in hospital.
Trauma or Injury to the Bones & Joints
Just like other bones in your body, your jaw can become fractured or dislocated. After taking a blow to the jaw, you may experience:
- Loose or missing teeth
- Bruises
- Pain
- Swelling
If you experience a serious dental issue then you will need to contact your dentist right away, you are missing teeth or you’re unable to chew or open and close your mouth. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen may help, in addition to dental treatment if necessary.
Dental Conditions (Major or Minor)
A variety of dental issues can lead to a sore jaw. These can include:
- Fractured or crowded teeth
- Toothache (typically with an abscess or cavity as the underlying cause)
- Teeth grinding
- Gum disease (which can cause your jaw bone to become damaged)
- Wisdom teeth erupting
- Misaligned teeth
These problems should be addressed as soon as possible, and fractured teeth are dental emergencies, so you should see your dentist right away. Until then, keep the tooth that hurts clean and try rinsing with warm water.
Cysts or Tumours
Not typically cancerous, odontogenic cysts or tumours can quickly begin to impact your teeth. If you experience these growths then it is likely that your dentist will schedule you for tumour removal.
Severe Headaches Around the Eyes or Jaw
One of the most painful types of headache, cluster headaches can result in pain around or behind one eye, with pain radiating to reach the jaw.
Osteomyelitis (Bone Infections)
This condition primarily affects the lower jaw (mandible). Referred to as anaerobic osteomyelitis, it can cut off the blood supply to your jaw and damage bone tissue if left untreated.
What are some ways to relieve jaw pain?
Caring for your jaw at home.
- Apply a warm, wet washcloth or ice pack covered in cloth to your jaw (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off)
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
- Rub the affected joint. Massage the joint using your fingers, pressing the sore areas of your jaw and moving to the side of your neck.
- Avoid caffeine (which can potentially contribute to muscle tension)
Scheduling professional dental care.
If you are unable to relieve your jaw pain you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.
At Peace Country Dental Clinic, our dentists will discuss your symptoms with you, complete a comprehensive oral examination, explain possible treatment options, and develop a custom treatment plan that may include a mouthguard or other measures depending on your needs.
In rare cases, oral surgery for TMJ Disorder may be recommended to correct the problem for those with severe pain that suffer from structural problems in their jaw and haven’t found relief with other remedies or treatments.