If your jaws hurt, we need to find the underlying reason to treat the problem, as an aching jaw may stem from one of several causes.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
Your jaw can ache because of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which may result from clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism), a misaligned bite, or stress. If you have TMD, we need to carefully scrutinize the reason for the disorder, as it can stem from one of several causes. TMD not only causes jaw pain, but it can also cause your jaw to lock in place or lead to clicking or popping sounds as well.
Toothache Pain and Other Dental-Related Pain
A toothache can also cause your jaw to throb and ache, especially if the decay has reached the nerves or pulp in a tooth. This type of pain needs to be treated without delay, as it will only worsen. If you have an abscess, you may experience a severe jaw ache. In some instances, impacted wisdom teeth can trigger jaw pain if they do not have room to come through the gum or crowding the other teeth. An infection can also be the cause of an aching jaw.
Trauma
If you get hit in the jaw in a contact sport or during an accident, your jaw can become swollen and hurt. When this happens, we need to take x-rays and see what damage has actually been done to the jaw or the teeth. Sometimes, placing a compress on the jaw and pain relievers are all that is needed to treat the problem. However, the jaw should still be monitored to ensure the incident does not trigger a future dental complaint.
Does your jaw ache? If so, it is a warning that something is wrong. Do not waste any time contacting us about this type of dental discomfort. Call us today so we can set a time for an exam and consultation.
Dental Blog - Lakewood, CO • Northstar Dental The doctors at Northstar Dental have provided this informative dental blog to provide education and information for the Lakewood and great Denver Colorado community. Click to view the latest posts. Northstar Dental, 860 Tabor St, Ste 100, Lakewood, CO 80401 ^ (303) 481-3901 ^ northstardentalco.com ^ 12/3/2024 ^ Related Terms: dentist Lakewood CO ^
If your jaws hurt, we need to find the underlying reason to treat the problem, as an aching jaw may stem from one of several causes.