Why Does My Jaw Hurt: 15 Causes & Treatment
Why Does My Jaw Hurt?
A jaw pain can have a negative effect on a person’s day to day life. You might worry about eating, smiling, sleeping and lot more. Experiencing a jaw pain is not something to be so worried about because it is a minor condition except it is not treated then it develops to an even more severe condition.
In this article, you will get to know the causes and treatment for a hurting jaw.
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Why Does My Jaw Hurt: 15 Causes Of Jaw Pain
The causes of jaw pain includes;
1. TMD Or TMJ Disorder
TMD (Temporomandibular Muscle Disorder) are the most common cause of a jaw pain. TMD is sometimes referred to as TMJ ( Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) are the hinge joints on each sides of the jaw.
This disorder causes a negative effect on the joints that connect the jawbone and the skull. It results in a lot of pain in the jaw.
Causes of TMD
- Injury to the jaw joint.
- Excess stimulation of the jaw joint.
- Arthritis of that protective disc that covers that jaw joint.
- Pain from the muscle that controls the jaw movement.
Symptoms of TMD
- Painful chewing
- Headaches
- Tenderness around the jaw
- Popping of the jaw
2. Untreated Cavity
Cavity can spread to tissues in the jawbone which can cause an infection and this infection can spread to cause a jaw pain if not treated. To avoid this from happening, you should consult your Doctor once you experience a cavity.
3. Toothache
Why Does My Jaw Hurt? A severe tooth pain can transfer pain to the jaw.
4. Heart Attack
A heart attack can cause pains in parts of the body such as the chest, the arm, the back even the jaw.
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5. Sinus Problems
Sinuses are air filled cavities located close to the jaw joint. If you have a sinus problem, breathing could be difficult and may also cause tenderness and pain in the upper jaw
6. Tumor
Why Does My Jaw Hurt? It could be as a result of tumor which are growth in the soft tissues of the jawbone can grow so fast and affect the teeth. People who experience this may have jaw pains.
Examples of Tumors
- Oddontoma
- Ameloblastoma
- NuDentigerous Cysts
Symptoms of Tumor
- Tissue growth around the teeth
- Trouble swallowing
- Trouble moving your jaw.
7. Trauma
Why Does My Jaw Hurt? Trauma like a hit on your jaw due to a fight or an accident can definitely cause a jaw pain. With this trauma in your jaw, it is possible to experience swelling, knocked out teeth and a severe jaw pain.
8. Migraine Or Cluster Headache
These are one of the most painful types of headache. This headache can cause pains behind and around the eyes and the pains can be transferred to the jaw.
9. Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe condition that is commonly caused by nerve compression on the trigeminal nerve that provides pressure to the face including the upper and lower jaw. This is more common in people above the age of 50.
10. Wisdom Teeth
A new tooth pops through your gums between the ages of 17 to 25. This tooth can cause a jaw pain if it shifts your teeth alignment or cause too much pressure to your jaw.
11. Arthritis
Many people ask the question “Why Does My Jaw Hurt?” Arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis is an auto- immune disease that causes the body to mistakes attack healthy tissues in the body which can cause a swelling. You can get a jaw pain if the swell damage the cartilage that helps your jaw move.
12. Teeth Grinding
Why Does My Jaw Hurt? Grinding your teeth can lead to a jaw pain. It is a common thing to do when you are sleeping, even when you are awake and a lot of people would not believe it can actually cause a jaw to hurt.
13. Periodontitis
This is also known as a gum disease. Just like an untreated cavity, a gum tissue can get infected with a gum disease which spreads to cause a jaw pain.
14. Osteomyelitis
This is a severe type of bone infection that forms when bacteria enters the bone. This infections can be gotten in the mouth if you hold an injury in your mouth during a dental surgery and will lead to a jaw pain.
15. Injury
Injuries from a fight, an accident, sport, work or anywhere can lead to a broken or dislocated jaw which would cause a severe jaw pain. It also answer the question “Why Does My Jaw Hurt?”
How Does The Teeth And Jaw Connect
Your teeth and jaw stay in the same house which is your mouth. Your teeth are attached to your jaw bone by the alveolar bone which contains your tooth sockets.
How To Treat Jaw Pain
Some treatments for jaw pain includes;
- Taking antibiotics for a sinus infection
- Physics therapy which includes ultra sound and massages.
- Antidepressants medication can help with stress which is a cause of TMD.
- Prescribed medications
- If you have a jaw injury, consult your Doctor.
Some Home Remedies To Relief Jaw Pain
- Apply heat
- Apply a cold compress
- Have some pain relieve, E.g; Ibuprofen, tylenol and any more.
- Massage the affected area
- Try to relax
- Rest your jaw from chewy food when possible.
Method To Prevent Jaw Pain
Jaw pains can be prevented through the following methods;
- Avoid excess intake of alcohol
- Avoid chewy food
- Avoid chewing bubble gums
- Do some meditation
- Exercise regularly
When To Visit Your Doctor
Jaw pains may not be serious but the following signs shows that it’s necessary to see your Doctor;
- Facial swelling
- Bad breath
- Tenderness in your jaw
- Worsening pain in your jaw
- Trouble opening or closing your mouth.
- Redness of the painful area
- Trouble eating or drinking.
- A high fever
Conclusion
Answering the question “Why Does My Jaw Hurt” Many things can cause a jaw pain. A jaw pain can give a serious discomfort but the good news is; it can be treated. If the pain persist or get worse, it is important to consult your Doctor for a proper treatment.