Talking, eating, and drinking are all important to your well-being. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, these everyday activities can be very painful and uncomfortable. We’re here to help you get to the bottom of what could be wrong and help you move forward onto treatment to correct this problem.
Take a look at the three most common reasons you have jaw pain:
TMJ Disorders
Disorders of your temporomandibular joint, the part of your jaw that allows your mouth to open and close, can cause severe pain and discomfort to the jaw and other parts of the body. Overuse, chewing on hard foods, and teeth clenching or grinding can cause this condition. Other TMJ symptoms include:
- Ear pain
- Teeth pain
- Facial Pain
- Tension headaches
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Jaw joint clicking or popping
The longer this condition goes untreated, the more damage that can be caused. Getting a made-for-you night guard worn while sleeping, eating softer foods, and more can help protect your TMJ. Speak with a TMJ specialist to get diagnosed and started on your treatment.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis, or inflammation of the nasal cavity, is often a side effect of a cold, allergies, or other medical conditions. If your sinus cavities, located behind your cheeks, are inflamed, you’ll likely experience some pain in your jaw. Other symptoms of sinusitis are:
- Nasal congestion
- Yellow or green mucus that comes out of your nose or drains into your throat
- Facial pain
- Pressure and pain in your ears or head
- Fatigue
- Difficulty tasting or smelling
Be sure to meet with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.
Dental Problems
If you’re experiencing jaw pain on one side, it can likely be traced to your oral health. Some of these dental issues include cavities, tooth abscess, wisdom teeth growth, gum disease, or misaligned teeth. If one of these is the root cause of your jaw pain, some other symptoms you may notice include:
- Tooth pain that comes and goes
- Sensitive teeth
- Sores in the mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Dry mouth
- Pain while chewing
Be sure to consult with your dentist to diagnose and correct the dental problem.
TMJ Treatment in Suffolk County, NY
Dr. Scott Simonetti, a TMJ disorder specialist, is here to help diagnose and put an end to your pain and discomfort caused by a TMJ disorder. Visit our website or give us a call at (631) 277-4848 to learn more about our POD® night guard treatment and how we can help you.