Jaw pain: 5 causes and treatment options

 

Virginia dental clinic

Jaw pain is a common, frequently crippling ailment that can cause anything from little annoyance to extremely painful, ongoing suffering. It may occasionally also be accompanied by headaches, exhaustion, and trouble speaking or eating. Dental issues are one cause of jaw pain, among many others. We will talk about the causes and available treatments in this blog. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage or get rid of jaw pain.

The causes of jaw pain

The collective name for the conditions that cause pain in the jaw is TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction). There are several factors that cause jaw pain. It is often the case that there is not one cause but that several factors together are the culprit. Various causes are:

Dental problems

One of the most common causes is dental problems, such as cavities, gum problems, teeth grinding or an incorrect position of the jaw.

Stress

Stress is another possible cause of jaw pain. When we are stressed, our muscles can tense up, leading to pain and tension. It is important to practice relaxation techniques, such as breathing techniques or yoga, to reduce stress-related jaw pain.

Injury or trauma

An injury or trauma can also cause jaw pain. If you've recently had an accident, it's important to seek medical attention to make sure there are no underlying issues. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage to the jaw.

Sinus infection

The sinuses are hollow spaces located in the forehead, behind the nose, on either side of the nose, and in the cheeks. Inflammation of the sinus located against the jaw can result in an overabundance of mucus. Inflammation can be caused by a virus or bacteria. The overabundance of mucus can put pressure on the jaw joints, resulting in annoying pain. Often a sinus infection is accompanied by a cold, fever and fatigue.

Cluster headaches

This is one of the most painful types of headaches and is located behind or around the eyes. In some cases, this pain can also extend to the jaw. The other way around also occurs when the jaw pain extends to the head.

What can I do myself against jaw pain?

·         Try to relax your jaw muscles regularly;

·         Avoid chewy food; take smaller bites and chew slowly;

·         Do exercises to relax your jaw muscles;

·         Try to avoid habits such as chewing gum, grinding your teeth, and biting your nails;

·         Use painkillers.

What can the dentist do for me?

If the pain persists, it is wise to have your jaw checked by a dentist. This way, we can first make a good diagnosis. Naturally, treat dental problems that cause your jaw pain. Think of tooth decay, but also, for example, making a custom-made plastic plate that fits exactly on your teeth. This protects your teeth against teeth grinding at night. In addition, your jaw is also in a different position, which can help against the pain. If a referral is required, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist at Virginia dental clinic.

Track down the cause.

Whatever the cause of your jaw pain, It's crucial to consult a doctor or dentist in Arlington, VA, to develop a treatment strategy. Then the cause can be found.


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