If you have been experiencing some jaw pain, it can definitely be a nuisance to deal with. You might wonder if you slept wrong or had too much chewy food that left you sore, but could there be more going on? There are a few different reasons that can be the culprit, from minor ones to some that need an urgent dental visit. Keep reading to see what might be causing your one-sided jaw pain and when you should call your emergency dentist.
Why Might I Have Pain on One-Side of My Jaw?
Finding out the exact reason for your discomfort can only be done by visiting a professional. A consultation with your dentist can help pinpoint the issue and create an effective treatment plan, but here are some issues that are common culprits:
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: This handy part of your head is what connects your jaw to your skull. It can sometimes become irritated from different factors like teeth grinding or clenching, stress, and even arthritis. It’s not uncommon to feel sore on just one side.
- Dental Abscess: Bacteria can infect a tooth and find their way deep inside it. It is often followed by swelling or fever, so calling your dentist to treat it right away is crucial.
- Facial Injury or Trauma: You may have had an accidental fall or been playing a sport when you received a blow to your face. It can leave your jaw aching just a bit, and if you think it feels odd afterward, it doesn’t hurt to get it checked at the ER (if it’s a break) or your dentist (if you believe it’s tooth-related).
- Sinus Infection: If your sinus cavities behind your cheeks are inflamed, you might be feeling some pressure from that. It can sometimes radiate down to one or both sides of your jaw.
When Is My Jaw Pain a Dental Emergency?
All of the problems above may not be pleasant to deal with, but it’s important to call your emergency dentist if you feel something is wrong. This is especially true if you have:
- Worsening pain or swelling in your face and jaw
- Trouble opening and closing your mouth
- Signs of infection (such as redness or pus)
- Chills or a fever
While feeling pain on one side of your jaw can be frustrating to deal with, it could be caused by a serious underlying condition. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, reaching out to your emergency dentist can help you get the relief you deserve. If you are unsure, calling a professional can help you get the advice you need to have a comfortable smile once again!
About the Practice
At Maguire Comprehensive Dentistry, you benefit from the skilled expertise of Dr. Erik Holz and Dr. John Zargari. We understand how you may unexpectedly need urgent dental care, so we have same-day emergency appointments. That way, you can get the treatments you need right away. By offering sedation options, you can enjoy a more comfortable visit that helps you get relief. If your jaw is hurting just on one side, the fastest way to contact us is by calling (407) 654-0070.