Jaw pain is a common ailment that many people experience at some point in their lives. The jaw is a complex joint that is used frequently throughout the day to eat, talk, and even yawn.
Pain in the jaw can be due to many different reasons, and it can be mild or severe, acute or chronic. Let’s explore some reasons why your jaw may be hurting.
1. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
TMJ disorder is a common cause of jaw pain and can affect up to 10 million Americans. The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull and allows us to move our jaw up and down and side to side.
TMJ dysfunction can occur when there is a problem with the joint or surrounding muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
Some common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:.
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area
- Pain in or around the ear
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Aching facial pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
2. Bruxism
Bruxism is also known as teeth grinding or clenching and is a common cause of jaw pain. This habit can occur during the day or night and can be due to stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite.
Some signs of bruxism include:.
- Worn, flattened, or sensitive teeth
- Receding gums
- Headaches or earaches
- Sore jaw or tightness in the jaw muscles
- Pain that feels like an earache, but it is not a problem with the ear
3. Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common cause of jaw pain and can occur when there is an infection in the gums surrounding the teeth. This infection can spread to the jawbone and cause pain or swelling.
Some common signs of gum disease include:.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Pain when chewing or biting
4. Sinus Problems
Sinus problems can sometimes cause pain in the jaw. When there is an infection or inflammation in the sinus cavities, this can put pressure on the jawbone and cause pain or discomfort in the area.
Some common symptoms of sinus problems include:.
- Congestion or stuffiness
- Headache or facial pain
- Pressure in the face or forehead
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue or malaise
5. Dental Problems
Dental problems such as cavities, infections, or abscesses can cause significant jaw pain. When there is an issue with the teeth, this can affect the surrounding gum tissue and jawbone, leading to pain or discomfort in the area.
Some signs of dental problems that can cause jaw pain include:.
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Pus or discharge from a tooth or gum area
- Foul breath odor or taste in the mouth
6. Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a rare but severe cause of jaw pain. This condition occurs when there is an infection in the bones of the jaw or other parts of the body.
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Osteomyelitis of the jaw can occur after a dental procedure, infection or injury to the mouth, or from a bacterial infection in the bloodstream.
Some symptoms of osteomyelitis include:.
- Severe pain and swelling in the jaw
- Redness or warmth in the affected area
- Drainage from the area
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
7. Trauma or Injury
Physical trauma or injury to the jaw can cause pain or discomfort in the area. This can occur from accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries.
When the jaw is injured, this can cause problems with the temporomandibular joint or surrounding muscles, leading to pain or dysfunction in the area.
Some signs of jaw trauma or injury include:.
- Pain, swelling, or tenderness in the jaw area
- Difficulty chewing or talking
- A popping or clicking sound when moving the jaw
- Numbness or tingling in the face or lips
- Changes in the alignment of the teeth or jaw
8. Cancer
Cancer of the mouth or jaw is a rare but possible cause of jaw pain. When cancerous cells develop in the mouth or jaw, this can cause pain or discomfort in the area, as well as other symptoms such as difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
Some signs of cancer of the mouth or jaw area include:.
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- Pain or tenderness in the mouth or jaw
- Difficulty swallowing or talking
- A lump or thickening in the mouth or neck area
- Changes in the way dentures fit
9. Prescription Medications
Some prescription medications can cause jaw pain as a side effect. This can occur with medications such as bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis or chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer.
These medications can affect the jawbone and lead to pain or discomfort in the area.
Some signs that prescription medications may be causing jaw pain include:.
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw area
- Loose teeth or difficulty chewing or biting
- Numbness or swelling in the jaw
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the jaw
- Infection or drainage from the area
10. Other Medical Conditions
There are many other medical conditions that can cause jaw pain as a symptom. These can include autoimmune diseases, nerve disorders, or vascular conditions.
Some common signs of medical conditions that can cause jaw pain include:.
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw area
- Numbness or tingling in the face or lips
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Fatigue or malaise
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
Conclusion
Jaw pain can be a complex and multifactorial issue that requires proper diagnosis and treatment from a dental or medical professional.
Common causes of jaw pain can include TMJ disorder, bruxism, gum disease, sinus problems, dental problems, osteomyelitis, trauma or injury, cancer, prescription medications, and other medical conditions. If you are experiencing jaw pain, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.
