5 Signs Your Jaw Pain Needs Treatment

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, you know that it can be much more than just a minor inconvenience and can interfere with talking, eating, and even sleeping. While occasional discomfort might not be a cause for concern, persistent or severe jaw pain may require professional treatment.

Luckily, Yev Davydov, DDS, Brianna Davydov, DDS, and our dedicated team at Chroma Dental in the Midtown East area of New York City can diagnose and treat your symptoms with various advanced services personalized for your specific needs.

In the meantime, here are the five signs that your jaw pain may require professional treatment to help you along the way. 

1. Persistent pain 

If you’re experiencing jaw pain that lasts more than a few days, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. In this case, seeking help in the early stages from our team can make all the difference and provide the relief you need. Persistent pain can be caused by: 

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

The joint connecting your jawbone to your skull is affected by this condition. 

Bruxism 

Occurring often during sleep, grinding or clenching your teeth characterizes bruxism.

Arthritis 

This condition causes inflammation of your jaw joint. 

2. Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth 

Jaw pain that makes it difficult to chew, speak, or open your mouth wide can significantly impact your daily life. This hardship can result from TMJ disorders, which lead to limited jaw movement, or from injuries such as trauma to your jaw from accidents or falls. Also, infections in your teeth or gums can spread to your jaw area. If you’re experiencing these signs, our team is here to determine the right cause and appropriate treatment. 

3. Clicking, popping, or grating sounds  

Hearing clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you move your jaw is never a good sign and could indicate an issue with the joint or surrounding muscles. Common causes include: 

Dislocation

A dislocation occurs when your jaw joint slips out of its normal position. 

Cartilage wear 

Watch out for the degradation of the protective cartilage around your joint. 

4. Swelling or tenderness   

Another key sign that indicates your jaw pain might need treatment is any visible signs of swelling or tenderness around your jaw or face, which can indicate underlying issues, such as:

Infection  

An infection can occur due to abscesses or infections in your teeth or gums. 

Inflammation  

Pay attention to any signs of inflammation resulting from arthritis, tonsillitis, or TMJ disorders.

5. Headaches and earaches    

Last but not least, it’s essential to remember that jaw problems often don’t just stay in your jaw; they can cause headaches and earaches due to interconnected nerves and muscles. TMJ disorders can cause referred pain to your head and ears, making these areas hurt as well. Similarly, the constant clenching or grinding of your teeth from bruxism can also lead to tension headaches. 

If you’re experiencing any of the above signs, don’t ignore them. Don’t let your symptoms lead to more critical health issues and impact your quality of life. Early intervention can provide relief and prevent further complications. 

Don’t let jaw pain disrupt your daily activities — call our office at 646-933-8174 if you’re ready to learn more, or click online to request an appointment today!