If jaw pain isn’t a regular occurrence for you, then when it sticks to one side of your face, it may feel extra strange. Whether it’s a dull ache or a sharp twinge, sudden or acute jaw pain can leave you wondering what’s going on. If you’re concerned it might be a dental emergency, continue reading. You’ll see some common culprits for jaw issues and learn what you can do to find relief.
Troublesome Teeth
Sometimes, the pain of a single tooth is enough to shoot through the bone and into your jaw joint. In this way, a deep cavity, cracked tooth, or dental abscess can easily cause localized pain to one side of your face.
If the discomfort worsens when you eat or press on a specific area, a dental issue may be the root cause. A quick exam and X-ray can pinpoint these problems so your dentist can take action.
TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the top of your jawbone to the base of your skull. And it does a lot of work! As one of the most complex joints in your body, it facilitates everything from chewing to talking. If one side of your jaw hurts, your TMJ might be inflamed or out of alignment.
If you hear clicking or popping sounds, have difficulty chewing, or feel a sharp pain when you open wide, there’s a good chance of TMJ disorder.
Sinus Pressure
Believe it or not, a stuffy nose or bad allergies can also cause jaw pain. This is because your sinuses are very close to your upper jaw. If you have sinus congestion or an infection, it can create pressure that feels like jaw pain, especially on one side. Fortunately, if this is the case, treating your sinuses will also relieve the discomfort in your jaw.
Overuse or Injury
Were you chewing gum all day? Do you rest your chin in your hand a lot? Repetitive strain or trauma, even if it’s mild, can cause muscle fatigue or joint pain on one side of your mouth. So, try giving your jaw a break from hard foods and habits that stress one side more than the other.
While jaw pain has many causes, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. If your discomfort lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back, it’s time to see your dentist. They can check for dental problems, jaw misalignment, or signs of clenching and grinding to find the cause and treat it at the source!
About the Practice
When jaw pain gets intense, our team at Advanced Dental Associates of Tampa Palms can help you treat your worst symptoms. All our treatment plans are customized to your needs using the latest dental technology. Whether you’ve had chronic discomfort or temporary issues, we can identify the problem and help you find a solution. Call (813) 972-9077 to schedule a consultation with us or visit our website to see a full menu of services.