Cases of sudden jaw pain that go away on their own after a short time aren’t usually indicative of anything serious, but severe and persistent jaw discomfort may require care from an emergency dentist. If your oral pain doesn’t go away after several days or is intense enough to make it difficult for you to function normally, it’s probably best to contact your dentist to schedule an appointment. Here’s a quick look at why your jaw may hurt on only one side, a few home remedies that may be able to help, and when to seek emergency dental care.
Why Does My Jaw Hurt on Only One Side?
Your jaw may hurt on only one side for a variety of reasons. A few possibilities include:
- Sinusitis: The human face has six sinuses, and you have two of them positioned directly above your upper molars. If these sinuses become inflamed, they can put uncomfortable pressure on these teeth and the jaw joints, causing temporary pain. This can be due to allergies or respiratory infections, and it may go away on its own after a few days.
- TMJ issues: Sometimes, jaw pain happens when the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, falls out of alignment due to chronic stress, grinding, or injury. This can lead to issues like clicking or popping sounds as well as discomfort.
- Oral health problems: Your jaw may hurt due to an untreated oral infection such as a toothache or a dental abscess located on one side of the mouth.
How Can I Address My Jaw Pain?
In many cases, mild cases of jaw pain can be addressed at home. If your jaw pain is caused by sinus inflammation, you may want to try over-the-counter allergy medications or pain relievers to reduce your symptoms and discomfort. However, consult with your doctor or an ENT specialist if the problem persists for several days. If your jaw pain is the result of a TMJ issue or teeth grinding, your dentist will be happy to fit you with a customized mouth guard designed to help your jaw rest comfortably and ease the strain on your jaw joints, and you may be able to reduce your discomfort with retail pain medication. If the problem is caused by oral infections, however, your dentist may have to address it with emergency treatments such as periodontal therapy, a root canal, or even an extraction if the problem is especially severe.
Don’t let jaw pain diminish your quality of life or set you up for serious oral health issues. Contacting your emergency dentist when necessary can help you keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
About the Author
Dr. Evan Pedersen earned his dental degree at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and takes great pride in leading the team at Oris Dental Studio. His staff in Austin takes special care to ensure that each patient enjoys courteous and effective service in a friendly office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about jaw pain, contact the office online or dial (512) 777-0866.