Jaw pain is often described as a throbbing, uncomfortable pain. It can happen all of a sudden, or it can start off mild and become more intense over time. However, the exact symptoms will vary depending on the root cause. Identifying the underlying issue is the first step in treating jaw pain. Here are a few causes to look out for.
Teeth Grinding
Grinding can cause severe damage to your teeth and is one of the leading causes of jaw pain. It is the process of clenching the teeth, that is not associated with chewing. Some people grind their teeth when they feel stressed, but a lot of people grind their teeth while sleeping, they just are not aware of it. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to a number of other dental issues. Practicing stress relieving exercises or wearing a mouthguard at night are just some of the ways to stop grinding.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is an infection that travels through the body's blood stream affecting an individual's bones and any surrounding tissues. When an individual suffers from osteomyelitis of the jaw, the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is impacted, causing jaw pain, fever and facial swelling. Fortunately, this condition is generally curable with a series of antibiotics or a surgical procedure to remove the areas of the bone that have died from the infection.
Temporomandibular Disorder
Temporomandibular disorder, also known as TMD, affects the temperomandibular joint . In addition to pain, this disorder can cause the jaw to make a clicking sound when opening the mouth or chewing. In severe cases, the disorder can even cause the jaw to become permanently stuck in an open or closed position.
Dental Conditions
Other causes for jaw pain include gum disease, cavities or an abscess. Although many of these issues don't directly affect the jaw, the pain can radiate into the jaw area. Additionally, individuals who have gaps in between their teeth or teeth that are severely damaged may also experience jaw pain when stress is put on their jaw, such as biting or chewing. Practicing a good oral health care regimen at home and visiting the dentist can help reduce your risk of developing any of these conditions.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is the result of a dental pulp, or nerve that has become infected. It generally occurs when a dental cavity has been left untreated for an extended period. When the bacteria from the infection begins to spread from the root of the tooth, it can also affect any surrounding bone tissues, causing significant jaw pain. Having regular dental exams and treating any dental cavities promptly, is the best way to avoid this issue.
Only a qualified dental professional can help you determine the root cause of your jaw pain.