4 Reasons for a Hurting Jaw
Posted on 7/24/2023 by Thomas Plunkett DMD |
Jaw pain is a common problem that affects many people. The pain in your jaw can manifest in different ways including; pain when you try to pen your mouth, your jaw may ache, you may experience stiffness in the jaw, or pain that spreads to your chest or shoulders to the jaw. This will interfere with your ability to speak and eat, creating a lot of discomfort and thus, affecting your quality of life.
The pain can either be mild or severe. There are several reasons why you are experiencing pain in your jaw including dental problems, trauma, and other times it can be an indication of a broken or dislocated jaw.
Dental Problems
Problems with your teeth are well known for causing pain in the jaw. Some of these problems may include; misaligned teeth, when wisdom teeth come in, it can cause jaw pain, toothache because of a cavity or absence, cracked teeth, and gum disease.
When you experience pain in your jaw because of dental problems, it is best to book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent any further pain.
Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder
The temporomandibular joint are the joints at the side of your jaws. This disorder is one of the leading causes of jaw pain and should be treated as soon as possible. There are several factors that can cause pain in these joints, such as excessive stimulation of the joint and pain from the muscles that control the movement of the jaw.
Trauma
Trauma to the jaw can also cause pain. It is quite possible to break your jaw or, sometimes, dislocate it. Dislocation of the jaw can lead to pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising. If you are having a hard time opening and closing your jaw, then you will probably have to see a doctor. Meanwhile, you can try over-the-counter painkillers to ease the discomfort.
Heart Attack
While it may seem highly unlikely that a heart attack can cause jaw pain, it is very possible. Cardiovascular disorders can sometimes cause pain in other areas of the body, such as the jaw, back, and arms. This is commonly known as referred pain.
To ease jaw pains, you can try some home medication such as over-the-counter pain relief medication, cold presses four or three times a day, and rest your jaw. It is important to note that the treatment type will depend on what caused the problem to begin with. In addition, should the pain persist, it is best to consult your doctor.
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