Jaw pain is any physical discomfort localized in the jaw. However, sometimes it can radiate to other areas of the face. Jaw pain is a very common problem. In most cases, it does not require immediate medical attention. While this is a relief, sometimes jaw pain can be indicative of a more serious underlying condition.
A myriad of issues causes sores in the jaw. Sinuses, ear problems, dental issues, injured nerved endings in the jaw, heart attacks, etc can cause it. Therefore, it can be difficult to tell what exactly is causing your jaw pain. Depending on its cause and severity, jaw pain can affect your ability to speak and eat. If you have severe, worsening, or persistent jaw pain, you should consult with your doctor or dentist as soon as you can.
Symptoms of Jaw Pain
- Pain in the face or jaw that worsens when the person uses their jaw (pain could range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation).
- Joint and muscle tenderness (accompanied by a fever, this might indicate an infection).
- Limited range of motion of the mouth.
- Jaw alignment problems.
- Clicking or popping sounds while opening or closing the jaw.
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Headaches with or without ear pain and pressure behind the eyes (tension or cluster headaches).
- Dizziness and vertigo (a spinning sensation).
- Jaw locking
- Facial swelling.
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Causes of Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
The temporomandibular joint is a cluster of muscles, bones, and nerve endings that are responsible for the jaw movement. Thus, TMJ disorder is any condition that affects any of these connective parts. TMJ disorder can be caused by several things;
- Injury to the jaw joint. This could happen if blood vessels, muscles, or nerve endings in the TMJ were compromised.
- Excess stimulation of the joint. There is a condition called temporal arteritis. It develops when the arteries on the temples become inflamed. temporal arteritis is caused by enthusiastic and lengthy chewing. This condition can affect the TMJ and can cause headaches as well.
- A displaced disc that cushions the jaw movement.
- Arthritis of the protective disc that cushions TMJ.
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism).
Trauma
Trauma is any physical injury or strain to the body. For instance, if a person took a severe hit to the jaw, it would likely lead to TMJ pain. Jaw pain can be caused by a broken or dislocated jaw. One can dislocate their jaw by opening the mouth too suddenly and too wide, for instance, if one yawned too wide.
Dental Conditions
Gum diseases, cavity, damaged tooth, tooth abscess, or even a tooth gap can cause jaw pain. These conditions can compromise the blood vessels and nerve endings in the gum and cause jaw pain.
Sinus Problems
Infections in sinuses, which are air-filled cavities near the TMJ, can cause mucus or pus buildup, resulting in pressure on the joint and jaw pain.
Cluster and Tension Headaches
These kinds of headaches are usually caused by stress, and they can cause debilitating pain. Cluster headaches typically cause pain behind or around the eyes, but the pain can radiate to the jaw.
Heart Attack
This is by far the most serious cause of jaw pain. If your jaw suddenly hurts and you feel faint, sweaty, or light-headed, you might be having a heart attack. Please call 911 immediately.
Jaw Pain is A Serious Problem
If you have severe and recurrent jaw pain, or if you have a combination of the symptoms seen above, see your doctor, dentist, or oral surgeon. You would want to know if your jaw pain was an underlying condition to something more serious.
CaliSmile Orthodontics: Best Orthodontist in Los Angeles County
With over 17 years of experience in both cosmetic and orthodontic dentistry, Dr. Amir Dehghan is the dental professional to partner with to make a plan for your dream smile. His commitment to helping you to meet your goals is unmatched in Los Angeles County.
CaliSmile Orthodontics has two convenient and modern dental offices, located in both Encino and West Hills, California. For a comprehensive orthodontic consultation in one of our Los Angeles County dental offices, give us a call anytime at (310) 710-6527 or fill out our online appointment request form.
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