What Chronic Jaw Pain Says About Your Mouth

September 24, 2019 9:32 pm Published by
man holding his jaw and grimacing in pain If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, you’re not alone. About 15 percent of Americans experience jaw pain and suffer from associated symptoms such as neck and face pain and migraines. There are many reasons why you could be experiencing jaw pain, and here we’ll discuss what chronic jaw pain says about your mouth.

You’re Suffering From a TMJ Disorder

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints, the two hinges that connects your jaw to your skull and makes it possible for you to close and open your mouth, as well as move your jaw side to side when you chew, yawn, and speak. TMJ disorders are associated with symptoms like pain in your jaw, pain in your face and in and around your ear, migraines, having difficulty opening or closing your mouth, and even difficulty chewing. Causes of TMJ disorders are varied and could be the result of an injury, arthritis, stress that’s causing you to grind or clench your teeth, dislocation, or improper alignment.

You Have Other Dental Health Problems

There are a number of oral health issues that could be the reason for your jaw pain. It could be something as common as a cavity or something as severe as an abscess. Gum disease can damage your jaw bone and cause associated pain. Even teeth that are crowded, cracked, or sensitive could be the cause of jaw pain. No matter what the cause, it’s important to see your dentist to determine the cause and get treatment.

You Have Experienced Mouth Trauma

The jaw bone is like any other bone in your body and is susceptible to traumatic events. If you have experienced a blow to your jaw, your jaw pain could be the result of swelling or bruises on your jaw.

You Have Arthritis in Your Jaw Bone

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can attack your temporomandibular joints. When you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, your body thinks healthy tissue is bad and so attacks it, causing it to swell up. This results in damaging the soft cartilage in your jaw, causing it to ache and feel sore and stiff.

Are You Experiencing Chronic Jaw Pain?

If you are experiencing chronic jaw pain, it’s important that you see the dentist as soon as possible so that we can determine what is causing the pain and find the right treatment option for you. Call us today to schedule an appointment. Contact Us

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