Jaw pain can be caused by a wide variety of medical problems. It is usually categorized as primary pain, which is caused by problems with the jaw itself, or secondary pain, which is caused by problems with other parts of the body. Some types of pain can be prevented, and many can be treated, though getting treatment early is important. Some of the most common causes of jaw pain include trauma, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs), and sinus infections. Some people also experience pain in the jaw when they have a heart attack or migraine.
Primary Pain
Trauma to the jaw is one of the most common primary causes of jaw pain. This often happens as a result of bruxism, which is the frequent grinding and unconscious clenching of the teeth. An abscess, a tumor, or gum infection can also cause pain, as can dental problems. For example, if a person's teeth are not aligned properly, or are irregularly spaced — called a malocclusion — he or she may have trouble biting or chewing properly, and this can lead to severe pain and facial deformities.
Bruxism and malocclusion can also lead to TMD, which is a chronic, long-term inflammation of the jaw. This causes severe, extended pain along with frequent headaches. Stress and anxiety also play a role in the development of this condition, since bruxism often increases when a person is stressed. Another serious cause of jaw pain is tetanus, which can cause the muscles that work the jaw to continuously contract; this is why this condition is also called lockjaw.
Primary jaw pain may also be caused by bone spurs and deep-seated wisdom teeth. Habits that put pressure on the jaw — nail biting, chewing gum, thumb-sucking, holding a phone between the shoulder and jaw, or sleeping on the back or side — can also cause pain over time. Joint diseases, such as arthritis, can also affect the jaw because they may be accompanied by bone degeneration. Additionally, many people feel pain after oral surgery or getting a tooth pulled.
Secondary Pain
One of the most serious secondary causes of jaw pain is a heart attack, which can cause pain that radiates from the jaw down the arm and shoulder. Trigeminal neuralgia, a facial nerve disorder, can also cause debilitating pain. Carotidynia, a type of migraine, can cause problems, particularly if the person grinds his or her teeth in reaction to the pain. Many people feel pressure or pain in the jaw when they get an ear or sinus infection because of the increased pressure in the ear and sinus cavities. Swollen glands in the neck can cause similar pain. Scurvy, which is caused by a lack of vitamin C, and phossy jaw, which is caused by exposure to white phosphorous, can also damage the jaw, though these conditions are rare in developed countries.
Prevention
The prevention for jaw pain largely depends on the cause. Though there's no way to prevent some things, like arthritis or trigeminal neuralgia, some causes can be avoided. For instance, people can often prevent TMD by consciously relaxing the face and jaw, reducing stress, and avoiding things that put pressure on the jaw. If the TMD is caused by or made worse by malocclusion, realigning the teeth or jaw may also help. This is particularly effective when done in children who are not yet in pain.
Common sense precautions can also help prevent many jaw problems. For instance, good dental hygiene can help prevent gum infections and other dental problems that can cause pain. Sleeping on the back with a supportive pillow and using a headset rather than keeping a phone between the shoulders and ear can help avoid putting pressure on the jaw.
Treatment
Jaw pain is usually initially treated with over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For pain caused by bruxism or TMD, dentists may recommend people use splints that help prevent them from clenching their teeth while sleeping, or may recommend stress-reducing exercises. TMD can also be treated with intra-aural devices, which are small plastic inserts that are inserted into the ear, where they reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint. For chronic or severe cases, dentists may choose to use a procedure called arthrocentesis, which involves injecting an anti-inflammatory solution into the joint, or surgery to reposition the jaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMD, and how is it related to jaw pain?
Temporomandibular joint disorder, often known as TMD, is a syndrome that affects the joint that joins the jaw to the skull. This joint controls how the jaw moves, and when it is irritated or inflamed, the jaw, face, and neck may all experience pain and discomfort.
TMD may be brought on by a variety of disorders, including teeth grinding, arthritis, joint damage, jaw misalignment, and other conditions. Depending on how severe the disorder is, the recommended course of treatment may include surgery, medication, or physical therapy.
What are the symptoms of jaw pain?
A dull, painful feeling in the jaw and surrounding regions is the primary sign of jaw pain. Other signs and symptoms might include headaches, discomfort radiating to the neck, ear, or teeth, trouble speaking or swallowing, and clicking, popping, or grating sounds while opening or shutting the jaw. Mild to severe jaw pain may be accompanied by discomfort, swelling, and difficulties moving the jaw.
How can I treat my jaw pain?
The best strategy to treat jaw discomfort is to find the root of the problem and deal with it. Your dentist could advise using a mouthguard at night if the discomfort is brought on by tooth grinding. Your doctor could suggest physical therapy, medicines, or perhaps surgery if the discomfort is TMJ-related. Additionally, proper posture practices and jaw workouts are crucial for easing jaw muscle strain. In addition, putting heat or ice on the jaw helps ease discomfort and swelling.
Are there any home remedies for jaw pain?
Yes, there are a number of natural methods for treating jaw discomfort. Limiting jaw movement, eating soft meals, and staying away from chewy or firm foods may all help ease discomfort. Cold or wet heat packs may be applied to the area.
Additionally, stress-relieving practices like meditation and deep breathing may ease tension in the jaw muscles. Finally, over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen and ibuprofen may help lessen inflammation and discomfort.
Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to reduce jaw pain?
Yes, there are a number of lifestyle adjustments you may make to reduce jaw pain. Limiting jaw movement, avoiding chewy or hard foods, and maintaining excellent posture can all ease jaw muscle stress. Regular exercise will also strengthen the jaw and neck muscles, which can lessen discomfort.
It's crucial to use relaxation methods like deep breathing and meditation since stress may lead to jaw muscle tightness. Finally, eliminating alcohol and caffeine can lessen jaw discomfort and inflammation.
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a The Health Board researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.