Jaw pain can be uncomfortable and even jarring, especially when it occurs on just one side. If you’re experiencing this type of pain, it might range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation when you chew, talk, or yawn. While occasional discomfort may not be serious, persistent jaw pain on one side could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Here’s a look at the most common causes and what you can do about them.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
One of the most common reasons for jaw pain on one side is TMD. The temporomandibular joints connect your jawbone to your skull and are used constantly for talking, eating, yawning, and more. The disorder can cause pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty opening your mouth fully, and even headaches or earaches.
What to do: Use moist heat, eat soft foods, and avoid wide yawning or chewing gum. A dentist can evaluate you and may recommend a nightguard or other treatments if grinding or clenching is the cause.
Dental Issues
Tooth problems such as cavities, cracked teeth, abscesses, or impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain that radiates to the jaw. Often, the pain is localized on one side depending on which tooth is affected.
What to do: If the pain is sharp or throbbing and worsens with hot, cold, or chewing, schedule a dental exam as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent the issue from worsening.
Sinus Infections
The sinuses are located near your upper jaw, and when they become inflamed or infected, they can cause pressure and pain that may feel like it’s coming from the jaw, usually on one side. This is more common during allergy seasons or with colds.
What to do: Try decongestants or nasal irrigation. If symptoms persist or include fever, see a doctor to rule out bacterial infection.
Injury or Trauma
If you’ve recently taken a hit to the face or jaw, even a minor one, this could cause pain on one side. Sometimes the injury may not be obvious, especially with minor fractures or strains in the muscles or ligaments.
What to do: Apply ice and take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Arthritis
Arthritis can affect the temporomandibular joint, causing stiffness, pain, and limited mobility. This usually develops gradually and can occur on one or both sides.
What to do: Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy may help. Your dentist or physician can recommend treatment based on the type and severity of arthritis.
When to Seek Treatment
Jaw pain on one side isn’t something you should ignore, especially if it lasts more than a few days, interferes with eating or speaking, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or other symptoms. An evaluation can pinpoint the cause and provide relief.
Identifying the cause of your one-sided jaw pain is the first step towards effective treatment. Whether it’s dental, muscular, or sinus-related, the sooner you seek help, the sooner you can get back to living pain-free.
About the Practice
At Dr. Euksuzian and Dr. Braatz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we don’t want to see any of our patients in pain. That’s why we do our best to be there for you, even if it’s a weekend emergency dentistry appointment you need. Give us a call and let our team help you get your smile back on track. Schedule your next visit at (609) 245-5184 or through our website.
