Jaw pain? Know when it’s time to see your dentist

Jaw pain? Know when it’s time to see your dentist

by | May 12, 2025 | Dental Emergencies, Mouthguard, Oral Conditions and Issues, Oral Links to General Health, Splints & Trays

Do you wake up with a sore jaw? Struggle to chew your favourite foods? Nagging discomfort might be worse than just annoying—it could signal an underlying dental or medical issue that needs professional attention. While occasional jaw pain may come and go, persistent or worsening discomfort is your body’s way of signalling that something isn’t right.

Understanding the possible causes and knowing when to see your dentist can make all the difference in preventing complications and finding lasting relief. Don’t wait until the pain takes over. Learn what your jaw pain might be telling you and how to take action.

What’s behind jaw pain

Jaw pain can stem from various dental and non-dental conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, one of these issues may be the culprit:

Jaw pain

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ dysfunction): The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, allowing smooth movement for talking and chewing. If the joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overused, it can cause pain, stiffness, clicking sounds, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching): Many people unconsciously grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. Over time, this habit can strain the jaw muscles, cause headaches, wear down teeth, and lead to persistent jaw pain.

Dental issues: Cavities, gum disease, abscesses, or misaligned teeth can all contribute to jaw discomfort. If you’re experiencing pain alongside tooth sensitivity, swelling, or redness, a dental checkup is essential.

Impacted wisdom teeth: If wisdom teeth fail to emerge properly due to lack of space, they can exert pressure on surrounding teeth and tissues, leading to pain, swelling, and even infection.

Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint, causing stiffness, pain, and difficulty with movement.

Infections or sinus problems: Infections in the teeth, gums, or sinuses can lead to pain in the upper jaw, especially if swelling and pressure develop near the molars.

Injury or trauma: A blow to the face, a fall, or a sports injury can result in jaw fractures, dislocations, or muscle strain, leading to long-term discomfort and difficulty chewing or speaking.

Signs you should see a dentist

It’s important to seek dental care if you experience:

Jaw pain
  • Ongoing or worsening jaw pain lasting several days or longer
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth fully
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving your jaw
  • Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the jaw area
  • Frequent headaches, earaches, or neck pain
  • Pain that radiates to the face, head, or shoulders
  • Changes in your bite or misalignment of your teeth
  • Locking of the jaw (difficulty opening or closing your mouth)
  • Tingling or numbness in the jaw or face (which could indicate nerve involvement)
  • Unexplained tooth sensitivity or pain that may be related to jaw tension or grinding

Ignoring these symptoms may lead to more serious complications, so early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

What to expect at the dentist’s office

Jaw pain

When you visit your dentist for jaw pain, they will:

1. Perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw joint.

2. Take digital X-rays or 3D scans to check for structural issues, hidden dental problems, or signs of arthritis./p>

3. Assess your bite and jaw function to determine if misalignment, teeth grinding, or TMD is contributing to your discomfort.

4. Review your symptoms and medical history to pinpoint potential triggers, such as stress, habits, or past injuries.

5. Check for muscle tension or tenderness in the jaw, face, and neck to evaluate strain from bruxism or joint dysfunction.

6. Discuss possible treatment options, such as a nightguard for teeth grinding, orthodontic adjustments, physical therapy, or TMJ-specific exercises.

7. Provide pain management advice, which may include anti-inflammatory medications, hot/cold therapy, or relaxation techniques.

8. Schedule follow-ups if necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Treatment options for jaw pain

The right treatment depends on the cause of your jaw pain. Your dentist may recommend:

Orthodontic treatment

Custom nightguards or splints: These oral appliances prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and help reduce pressure on the TMJ, easing jaw tension and preventing further wear on teeth.

Orthodontic treatment: If misaligned teeth or an improper bite are contributing to the pain, orthodontics like clear aligners can help correct the issue and improve jaw function.

Medication: Depending on the severity of your pain, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers to manage discomfort.

Physical therapy and jaw exercises: Guided exercises and stretches can help strengthen jaw muscles, improve mobility, and reduce muscle tension. Techniques like massage therapy and ultrasound therapy may also provide relief.

Dental procedures: If jaw pain stems from decay, infection, or gum disease, treatments such as fillings, root canals, extractions, or deep cleanings may be necessary to eliminate the source of pain.

Lifestyle adjustments: Small changes can significantly reduce jaw pain over time. These include avoiding hard or chewy foods, managing stress, practicing proper posture, using hot/cold compresses, and incorporating relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, mindfulness).

Get jaw pain out of your life

Happy dental patient

Jaw pain can turn everyday moments—like enjoying meals or chatting with friends—into uncomfortable struggles. While occasional discomfort may pass on its own, persistent or worsening pain is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional attention. Delaying treatment not only prolongs your discomfort but may also allow minor issues to develop into more complex problems requiring extensive care.

Early action is your best path to comprehensively resolving problems. When you seek dental treatment at the first signs of jaw pain, you don’t just relieve symptoms, you create the right conditions to protect your long-term oral health and overall well-being. Most jaw-related conditions respond well to early intervention, often with simple, non-invasive solutions that fit easily into your routine.

Don’t let jaw pain control your daily life. Take the first step towards lasting relief—schedule an appointment with your dentist today and rediscover the comfort of a pain-free smile.

Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

by | Sep 26, 2023 | Dental Emergencies, Oral Conditions and Issues, Oral Surgery, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

Did you know that not all wisdom teeth need removal? However, there are cases when these teeth may cause problems such as impaction or infections that need to be treated.

In this blog, we’ll discuss why some wisdom teeth may require removal, what risks they may pose and how to deal with these problems effectively.

Common problems associated with wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth troubles can cause a range of oral health issues, from tooth pain to severe infections. Some risks associated with wisdom teeth include:

Impaction and misalignment:

When there isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to come through properly, they can become impacted, which means they don’t fully erupt from the gum. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at abnormal angles, which can damage nearby teeth or cause a lot of pain.

Gum infections and gum disease:

Wisdom teeth are generally hard to clean because they are in the back of the mouth. This can cause food particles and bacteria to build up around these teeth, which can lead to gum infections and periodontal disease (a disease of the gums).

Tooth decay:

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be hard to clean thoroughly, which makes them more likely to get cavities. The risk increases when the teeth are positioned in a way that restricts proper cleaning, exposing them to bacterial intrusion and decay.

Cysts and tumours:

When wisdom teeth become impacted, cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, can form. These cysts can put pressure on the jawbone or nearby teeth, which could cause damage. In rare cases, these teeth can develop tumours around them, which can become a very serious concern.

Systemic impact:

The potential link between oral infections resulting from problematic wisdom teeth and the risk of sepsis is an often-overlooked but critical concern. Sepsis is a rare but severe, life-threatening condition that happens when an infection spreads through the bloodstream and makes its way to all parts of the body. It is crucial to seek treatment when abnormal symptoms are apparent, as it may be urgent to treat an infected or trapped wisdom tooth.

Addressing problems caused by wisdom teeth

Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

Regular dental check-ups:

Establishing a routine for dental check-ups gives your dentist the opportunity to closely monitor how your wisdom teeth grow and align together. This meticulous approach makes sure that any potential complications are identified as early as possible, which significantly reduces risks and future problems.

X-ray imaging:

Dental X-rays, specifically panoramic X-rays (OPG), can show you exactly where your wisdom teeth are and how they fit in with the structure of your mouth. This can help you and your dentist make more informed decisions about your oral health and treatment options.

Expert consultation:

When you have questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth, your dentist can provide professional guidance and informed suggestions. Dental professionals know a lot about oral health and hygiene, and can give you advice and recommendations that are suitable for you.

Extraction:

Wisdom teeth that are causing problems or seem likely to do so are often good candidates for removal. This preventative method helps keep your mouth healthy and comfortable in the long run by preventing buildups of food or bacteria, infections, crowding (malocclusion) and other problems.

Anaesthesia and sedation:

Your personalised anaesthetic options will depend on your individual comfort and anxiety levels, as well as the complexity of the extraction procedure. Your dentist will ensure to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxing environment for you during your treatment.

Tailored care instructions:

Your dentist prioritises your oral and overall health in the clinic, as well as outside of the dental chair. When you undergo a wisdom tooth removal procedure, your dentist will give you detailed guidance on what to expect and how to take care of yourself afterwards. Their professional advice will assist with a speedy recovery and reduce the risk of post-procedure problems.

Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

Prevent wisdom teeth problems

Get help from your dentist and act quickly if something doesn’t seem right with your oral health, especially where wisdom teeth are involved. Regular 6-monthly dental check-ups and open discussions with your dentist are the best ways to diagnose and treat any dental problems. Remember that everyone’s case is different, and a personalised approach to managing your wisdom teeth can give you a healthier, more comfortable smile for years to come.

If you think your wisdom teeth might be causing problems, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist for guidance and solutions.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

Preventing Dental Emergencies

by | Feb 15, 2016 | Dental Emergencies, Oral Safety and First Aid, Prevention, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

What are dental emergencies? Dental emergencies include:

  • Toothaches
  • Abscesses and gum infections
  • Loose or displaced teeth
  • Tongue injuries
  • Broken, fractured or chipped teeth
  • Soft tissue injury (e.g. lips, mouth, gum or jaw)
  • Knocked out teeth

The key to successful emergency treatment is to stay calm and call your dentist immediately for professional advice on your next step. But did you know that most dental emergencies are preventable? You can’t predict when an accident that causes oral injury happens. But you can manage risk by better assessing and preparing for situations with higher risk factors, like contact sports for example. Here are some ways to prevent acute oral injuries and conditions:

  • Mouth-guards – If your sport puts your teeth, tongue, gums, soft tissue and supporting bone at risk, invest in a custom-fitted mouth-guard for better protection, from your dentist. Specialized night mouth-guards can also protect people with a tooth-grinding condition ( Bruxism ).
  • Rules of play – When it comes to children participating in recreational activities, remind them of the rules and conditions of play, that ensure their health and safety. For example, no running around a pool. 
  • Good oral hygiene and care – Dental emergencies occur as a result of poor oral hygiene and care. Toothaches, abscesses and other oral infections can be prevented with good tooth brushing and flossing habits and regular dental check-ups. That way, you can avoid the pain and inconvenience of an acute oral condition. 
  • Healthy diet – Limit eating plaque-forming foods containing high sugar and starches, as snacks. Plaques cause dental decay which can lead to oral infection and gum disease. 
  • Sensible biting and chewing habits – The breaking, fracturing and chipping of teeth can occur from the forceful biting or chewing of sticky or hard food like chewy or hard candy and olive seeds. Non-food objects like glasses, pens and pencils can cause oral injury too. Avoid using your teeth to cut non-food items like tape.

Good common sense, oral care and risk management are key to minimizing the risks of a dental emergency. But if you or your family experience one, contact your dentist immediately.