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

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:

- 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

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:

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

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.