Jaw pain can be debilitating as it can indicate anything from a regular toothache to a heart attack. Ache in the jaw can range from dull and constant to sharp and sudden pain, especially when you open your mouth. In severe cases, you may even hear popping or clicking sounds when you move your jaw. If this happens, visiting a dental office is highly recommended to check your mouth.
You should also know when to be concerned about your jaw pain. This article will guide you through the process.
What Causes Sudden Jaw Pain?
Jaw pain on one side or complete jaw pain can be caused by various factors ranging from simple toothache to serious medical issues. This includes:
1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
TMD is one of the common causes of jaw pain. The pain caused by TMD is sudden and severe and radiates from the jaw, face, and neck to the shoulders. It can also cause difficulty opening and closing your mouth, a popping sound when you move your jaw, or pain when you chew.
TMD is mainly caused by:
- Improper bite
- Excessive gum chewing
- Misalignment in the teeth or jaws
- Injury to the neck, face, or head
- Teeth grinding
- Stress
- Arthritis
In the case of TMD, your dentist may recommend specific treatments, including a dental splint, muscle relaxant, or physical therapy.
2. Stress
Constant stress is detrimental to oral health. Sudden jaw pain may result from body tension, especially in facial muscles. This tension can lead to tightness in the jaw, causing immense pain when you move it.
3. Toothache
If you have jaw pain on the left side or any one side, it might be due to your tooth. Toothaches usually radiate all over your face, especially your jaw. You can feel this pain emerging from one of your teeth and radiating towards the jaw. This usually occurs due to an inflamed or irritated nerve in your tooth.
4. Teeth Grinding
Clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism) can lead to jaw pain. If your jaw hurts when you chew, it may be due to teeth grinding. Grinding causes teeth to wear down and become inflamed, resulting in jaw pain and headaches.
5. Sinus Problems
Sinuses are air-filled cavities that are present close to your jaw points. Their primary purpose is to filter air and add moisture. If your sinuses are inflamed or irritated, they may create excess mucus. This excess mucus puts additional pressure on your sinuses and jaw points.
If you notice sudden jaw pain, check with your dentist to see if you have a sinus infection. Left untreated, it may cause severe consequences and develop into chronic sinusitis.
6. Nerve and Muscle Pain
Nerve pain occurs when a nerve in the head or neck is irritated or inflamed. The trigeminal nerve, which affects the jaw and face, is a common cause of jaw pain. Infections or injuries to these nerves can cause sharp jaw pain. Disorders like multiple sclerosis or trigeminal neuralgia can also cause jaw pain.
7. Other Health Problems
Jaw pain accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling could signal a serious health condition like a heart problem. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention.
How To Get Rid of Jaw Pain?
If you are suffering from sudden jaw pain, here are some tips to ease your discomfort:
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Apply Ice Pack
Applying ice or a warm compress can help reduce inflammation and relax muscles around your jaw. You can apply an ice or warm compress to the area for 10-15 minutes and practice it several times throughout the day.
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Over-the-Counter Medications
If your jaw pain is beyond manageable, you can try certain over-the-counter medications, including ibuprofen, to reduce swelling and pain.
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Massage Your Jaw
Gently knead the muscles on your jaw to reduce tension. Use a circular motion with firm pressure for 15-20 seconds and repeat as needed.
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Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy foods, as they may require little pressure to chew. Instead, switch to softer foods to reduce jaw pain.
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Visit your dentist
If your jaw pain gets worse, visit your dentist. A dentist can help you diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment.
To Sum It Up
Jaw pain can range from a dull ache to sharp pain radiating to your face and neck. It can be caused by TMJ disorder, stress, or inflammation. While mild pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications and ice packs, persistent pain requires a thorough checkup.
Want Relief from Sudden Jaw Pain?
Visit Valley Ridge Dental for expert care and comprehensive treatment options. Our experienced team will diagnose the cause of your jaw pain and provide practical solutions to get you back to feeling your best.
Contact us today at (651) 439-0322 to schedule your appointment and start your journey to pain-free living!
