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Jaw Pain

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain can come from TMJ disorder, teeth grinding, or dental infection. A proper assessment helps target the right treatment.

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01 — Why it matters
Jaw pain has several possible causes.

The jaw joint is one of the busiest in the body — we use it constantly when talking, chewing and swallowing. Pain, clicking or stiffness usually means something is out of balance, whether it's the joint itself, the muscles around it, or your bite.

Teeth grinding, an uneven bite, stress, arthritis and even dental infections can all contribute. Getting the right diagnosis matters because the treatment is very different depending on the cause.

02 — Symptoms

Obvious. And often painful.

The signs vary, but most people notice one or more of these:

  1. 01Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint
  2. 02Clicking or popping when chewing
  3. 03Difficulty opening your mouth fully
  4. 04Pain spreading to the ear or temple
03 — Causes

Where it comes from.

The most common culprits:

TMJ disorder
Problems with the temporomandibular joint.
Teeth grinding or clenching
Overworking the jaw muscles.
Uneven bite
When teeth don't meet harmoniously.
Dental infection or abscess
Sometimes felt as jaw pain in some cases.
04 — When to see a dentist

Don't wait it out.

Speak to your our practice dentist if you're experiencing any of the following — book an appointment as soon as you can:

  • Pain lasting more than a few days
  • Your jaw locking or getting stuck
  • Pain alongside swelling
  • Difficulty eating because of the pain
05 — What to do about the pain

In discomfort right now?

A soft diet and avoiding wide yawning can ease symptoms temporarily, but ongoing jaw pain needs a proper assessment.

06 — What's next

A plan, not a quick fix.

Depending on the cause, treatment might involve a nightguard, bite adjustment, or addressing an underlying dental issue.

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