What is Causing My Jaw Pain?

Your jaw is designed to move. Up and down and side-to-side. Sometimes, however, just the slightest movement can cause pain. Whether that discomfort is sharp and acute or dull and chronic, you need to get rid of it. First, however, you must determine the underlying cause so proper treatment can be prescribed. Here are a few reasons you may be experiencing jaw pain.

Do You Grind Your Teeth?

The person sleeping one pillow over may be able to answer that question. And if the answer is yes, then this may be the reason your jaw hurts. Grinding and clenching your teeth puts unnatural pressure on your jaw. Moreover, this can be a tough habit to break when it happens while you sleep. Speak to your dentist about wearing a nightguard that protects your teeth and reduces pressure.

Do You Have TMD or TMJ?

The joints that allow you to move your jaw are called the temporomandibular joints. If you notice a clicking sound when you open your mouth or if your jaw sometimes feels as if it’s stuck in one position, then TMD may be the culprit. TMD can result from teeth grinding, arthritis in the joints or a hard blow to the face, head or neck. Once again, a nightguard may be the solution as well as a temporary diet of soft foods.

Could I Have an Infection?

Possibly. Osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection that can move through your bloodstream, attacking bones and nearby tissue. If osteomyelitis infects your jaw then your temporomandibular joints may be affected. Symptoms include jaw pain and swelling as well as fever. This type of infection can be treated with antibiotics or surgery to remove severely infected bone tissue.

Can a Dental Problem Cause Jaw Pain?

Yes. Conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease can make your jaw hurt. Neither one of these may directly affect the jaw, but if they are left untreated for a long time, the resulting pain can radiate into your jaw.

In addition, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth or broken teeth can cause jaw pain whenever you bite down.

What about an Infected or Abscessed Tooth?

This is one of the most painful of all dental health problems and usually occurs when a cavity is not treated in a timely manner. In this case, bacteria move into the tooth’s nerve center and root canals. Then, the bacteria may spread from a tooth’s root to the surrounding bone. Regular dental checkups and prompt treatment of a cavity can prevent infection or an abscessed tooth.

Dr. Steve Cobb is a family dentist who treats TMJ in Odessa, as well as other conditions that cause jaw pain. See a qualified dental professional to find out what is causing you to have pain in your jaw.