Have you ever experienced jaw pain on one side of your face? Whether the discomfort builds up over time or starts suddenly, dealing with jaw pain is always a cause for concern. You may be wondering: what causes this kind of discomfort in the first place? Read on to learn about five potential reasons for your jaw pain that may require an emergency visit to your dentist.
Reason #1: Sinusitis
Sinusitis occurs when the cavities around the nasal passages become swollen. Acute sinusitis can be caused by the common cold or allergies. Serious complications with this condition are rare. But, if sinusitis lasts for eight weeks or longer and becomes chronic, this may be due to growths or an infection. Sinusitis can cause inflammation behind the cheeks, which may lead to jaw pain on one or both sides.
Reason #2: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
This occurs when the disk that helps the temporomandibular joints move becomes damaged or misaligned. Since temporomandibular joints ( TMJ) are located on both sides of your face and connect your skull and lower jawbone, this may result in pain on one or both sides.
Reason #3: Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a rare bone infection that occurs when bacteria enter the bone. Those who recently had oral surgery are at risk of developing osteomyelitis in their jawbone. Dental problems, conditions related to the immune system, and mouth injuries may also cause osteomyelitis, which can result in jaw pain.
Reason #4: Trigeminal Neuralgia
This condition develops when abnormal pressure is put on the trigeminal nerve and often results from injury or brain abnormalities. The trigeminal nerve is located in the head and provides facial sensations and motor functions such as biting and chewing. The pressure put on the nerve from this condition may cause intense jaw pain on one side.
Reason #5: Cysts and Tumors
Cysts are abnormal growths filled with liquid or a semisolid substances that are usually noncancerous and can result from injuries and a range of other issues. Tumors are also abnormal growths, but they’re masses of tissue that form when cells grow and divide too quickly or don’t die when they should. Both cause jaw pain and are detectable by taking X-rays.
Contact your dentist as soon as you begin to experience jaw pain on one side of your face. They will be able to determine the cause and administer prompt treatment to prevent the issue from worsening and get your oral and overall health back on track.
About the Author
Plush Dentistry takes great pleasure in helping patients maintain gorgeous grins. Dr. Naira Kraipak, Dr. Faizan Ali, and their talented team are experts at all things oral health and can help with more than just teeth. If you have jaw pain on one side, they will do a thorough examination to determine the cause and administer the treatment you need. Call Plush Dentistry’s office at (469) 850-0786 or visit their website for more information on their services or to schedule a consultation.