At the end of a long day, there’s nothing else you’d like to do than snuggle into bed and drift off into dreamland. But right as you’re falling asleep, you’re jolted awake by a nagging pain on one side of your jaw. Although the feeling can be alarming, don’t worry – it usually isn’t a cause for immediate concern. Read on as we discuss what causes jaw pain on one side and when you should seek care from your emergency dentist in Conway.
What Causes Jaw Pain?
There are several possible causes for jaw pain on one side, including:
TMJ Disorders
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders affect the joint that connects your skull and jaw. Since you have one joint on each side of your jaw, a TMJ disorder can cause pain in the joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. Other symptoms of this disorder include jaw tenderness, earaches, clicking or popping when opening your mouth, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth if the joint locks.
Oral Health Problems
In some cases, one-sided jaw pain can be traced to underlying oral health problems. Some common dental issues that cause jaw pain are cavities, an abscessed tooth, gum disease, tooth decay, growth of wisdom teeth, missing or crooked teeth, clenching or grinding your teeth.
Sinusitis
If your nasal cavities are inflamed, it can lead to sinusitis. Since the nasal cavities are located behind your cheeks, the inflammation can cause pain in one or both sides of your jaw. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, such as nasal congestion, yellow or green mucus, facial swelling, fatigue, and difficulty smelling or tasting.
When Should I See My Dentist?
Usually, jaw pain on one side isn’t a dire situation. However, if the discomfort is accompanied by certain symptoms, it could indicate a more severe condition that requires immediate treatment. Contact your emergency dentist right away if you experience any of the following:
- Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days or is recurring
- Difficulty eating, drinking, swallowing, or breathing
- Swelling or a fever that doesn’t go away
- Severe pain that disappears after a burst of bitter-tasting and unpleasant-smelling salty liquid
Tips to Relieve Pain
Are you experiencing mild jaw pain? Here are some tips for relief:
- Apply a cold compress. Wrap an ice pack in a clean towel and apply it to the aching area. It’ll help numb the pain and reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter medication. Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help alleviate your discomfort and manage inflammation.
- Rest your jaw. Stay away from foods that require significant chewing power to avoid overworking your jaw muscles.
- Massage your jaw. Massage therapy can help release pain and tension in your jaw. Try some techniques on your own or visit a specialist for help (healthcare provider, physical therapist, massage therapist).
If one-sided jaw pain is preventing you from falling asleep, try the tips outlined above for relief. When in doubt, contact your emergency dentist for treatment and peace of mind.
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph has helped patients achieve and maintain their best smiles for over 25 years. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Murph and his team at American Dental Care understand dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them to. They’ll provide you with prompt relief when you need it the most. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, visit our website or call (843) 488-4357 to schedule an emergency visit with Dr. Murph.