Jaw pain is a common problem, which may be due to a range of oral and overall health issues. Often, it affects both sides of the jaw. But what if your jaw hurts on only one side? What might be causing the issue, and how can you tell if you need emergency dental treatment? This blog post provides some helpful information.
Is It a Heart Attack?
Jaw pain could signal a heart attack, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, or cold sweats. Call 911 immediately if these symptoms occur; quick action is crucial for your health. (Side note: While jaw pain is usually nota sign of a heart attack, if you are ever in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution.)
TMD Pain
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition that afflicts the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. When the TMJ becomes damaged or inflamed, numerous symptoms can result, including one-sided or double-sided jaw pain. If you suspect you have TMD, it is important to see a dentist who can identify the cause and help you find relief. Treatment options may include mouthguards, physical therapy, or medication.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket that results from a tooth infection. It can cause severe jaw pain. Other symptoms include facial swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, and fever. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading into other tissues. Your dentist may need to drain the abscess, provide root canal therapy, or even completely extract the infected tooth.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis occurs when your sinuses become inflamed due to allergies or an infection. This inflammation can cause pain in the area above your jaw. If sinusitis lasts for more than a week, it is advisable to visit your doctor. Treatments include decongestants, nasal sprays, or possibly antibiotics.
Other Possible Causes
Less common causes of one-sided jaw pain include:
- Trigeminal neuralgia: This condition causes severe facial pain due to pressure on the trigeminal nerve, which extends throughout the head and face. The pain can be sudden and intense, affecting one side of your face and jaw. Treatment options include medications, surgical procedures, or nerve blocks.
- Osteomyelitis: This is a rare bone infection that can occur after surgery. Symptoms include jaw pain, fever, and swelling. Urgent medical treatment is necessary to prevent complications.
- Tumors and cysts: Non-cancerous and cancerous growths can also cause discomfort in your jaw. These may require surgical intervention to remove and alleviate symptoms.
While one-sided jaw pain does not usually signify a life-threatening problem, seeking professional care is advisable to determine the cause and find appropriate treatment. Always pay attention to your symptoms and consult with a healthcare provider to protect your health and long-term wellness.
Meet the Practice
At Anderson Family Dental by Espire, we are proud to be the home of three highly skilled dentists. Our team has great compassion for patients in pain, and we are often able to accept same-day emergency patients. To learn more about how we can help you cope with jaw pain or other uncomfortable symptoms, get in touch with our Colorado Springs office at 719-521-4945.