It is less common than a toothache or toothache, but it is
just as debilitating and annoying as these two. We're talking about jaw pain.
Jaw pain or pain in the jaw joints can greatly impair the ability to eat and
drink. Most temporomandibular joint pain is due to an abnormality or injury to
the joints of the jaw. But there are also many other causes that can cause this
problem. In this article, we look at the causes, solutions and the role of the
dentist in jaw pain.
Causes of jaw pain
1. Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)
This is also referred to as TMJ and is the most typical
source of jaw pain. The hinge joints on either side of the jaw are known as
temporomandibular joints. With a TMD, one (or both) of the hinge joints is not
working properly. Because these hinge joints are close to the ear, the pain can
be felt in the ears. In addition to jaw pain, there are other causes of
underlying TMD, such as temporomandibular joint injury and overstimulation of
the temporomandibular joint.
2. Cluster headaches
Cluster headaches are one of the most painful headaches.
This is a typical headache where the pain is located behind or around the eyes.
Sometimes the pain can also extend to the jaw. The other way around is also
possible, with jaw pain extending to the head.
3. Sinus headache
Sinuses are cavities located in the face. In total, there
are four sinuses in the cavities of both sides of the face. One of those
sinuses is the jaw sinus. This is located under the eyes, close to the roots of
the teeth. If these cavities become inflamed due to a virus or bacteria, for
example, this can result in an overabundance of mucus, which in turn puts
pressure on the jaw joints and other parts of the face, such as the ears and
eyes. Jaw pain caused by sinus infections often involves other complaints.
Other symptoms include a runny nose, cough, fever, and fatigue.
4. Toothache
Abscess in
mouth on gum can occasionally cause jaw pain to spread. Frequent
grinding (bruxism) can also lead to jaw joint complaints.
5. Trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain)
These are short but intense pain attacks in the face. The
attacks are caused by various stimuli, including the nose, talking, eating,
washing and touching. The pressure from these pain attacks can also cause severe
jaw pain.
What can you do about jaw pain?
1. Apply moist heat packs or ice packs
This can be done in two ways. Place ice in a plastic bag,
wrap it in a thin piece of clothing and hold it against the face for about 10
minutes. Then take it off for 10 minutes before putting it back on. Another way
is to warm a washcloth with warm water and then apply it to the area around the
jaw. Repeat this several times. The moist heat relaxes the overactive jaw
muscles and soothes the pain. Repeat this several times a day.
2. Painkillers
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce
jaw pain and discomfort.
3. Massage the affected temporomandibular joint.
To do this:
·
Gently press the sore areas
of the jaw with the index and middle fingers, such as the area just in front of
your ears where the jaw joints meet.
·
Rub the area vigorously in
a circular motion about five to ten times.
·
Open your mouth and repeat
the exercise.
Massaging the muscles on the side of the neck can also help
relieve pressure. There are different massage techniques. Consult your Virginia family dentist or general
practitioner for further instructions.
4. Reduce stress.
Jaw joint complaints can also be a result of stress. By
using stress-relieving techniques, clamping and painful jaws can be reduced.
Think, for example, of yoga, meditation and spiritual sessions.
5. Avoid "chewy" foods.
Tough, hard or crunchy foods take a toll on your jaw weight
and lead to jaw pain later on. In particular, avoid apples, tough meats,
chewing gum, and ice cream.
What can the dentist do in case of severe jaw pain?
If pain persists, it is wise to have the jaw viewed by the
dentist. The dentist can then make a better diagnosis by:
·
listen to and feel your jaw
when you open or close your mouth;
·
observe the movement of the
jaw and see how far you can open the mouth;
·
inspect and check the areas
around your jaw for pain and/or discomfort.
If your dentist suspects a problem, the dentist may perform
the following:
1.
X-rays of your teeth and
jaw.
2.
Take a CT scan to map a detailed
view of your bones and joints.
3.
Prepare a referral for an
MRI scan to clarify problems with the jaw and surrounding areas.
Comments
Post a Comment