How to Get Rid of Your Jaw Pain

Jaw issues come in many forms. You could have a toothache that comes and goes. You might have a strange clicking sensation when you chew or even yawn. Maybe you have constant pressure on your jaw as a whole. This pain can be challenging to manage and may even be affecting your daily life.

Is there more you could be doing to relieve this pain? That depends. Our team here at Brooklyn City Dental in Greenpoint, New York, has many years of experience treating jaw disorders, and we want you to be informed on what is causing your jaw pain and how to move forward with treating it.

What could be causing my jaw pain? 

The intensity and location of your jaw pain differ depending on the issue. This jaw pain could be triggered by many things, including the following: 

• Sinus congestion or infection 
• Tooth pain from dental abscesses
• Cluster headaches gathering or radiating into the jaw
• Pressure on the trigeminal nerve, which provides feeling for the majority of your face, aka trigeminal neuralgia

However, most cases of jaw pain can be traced to the jaw itself. Issues with this joint are called TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorders.

A closer look at TMJ

The TMJ is a hinge joint that controls your jaw. Each side is cushioned by a protective disc, which allows you to chew, talk, and yawn without putting undue stress on the jawbones. TMJ disorders can occur when there's a problem with the disc, hinge, or muscles of your TMJ. 

TMJ disorders are the most common cause of jaw pain. Nearly 10 million Americans struggle with TMJ disorders. The pain in this joint can result from any of the following: 

• Injury to the jaw
• Clenching your teeth
• Overworking your jaw 
• A displaced disc in the jaw
• Grinding your teeth in your sleep
• Arthritis of the jaw joint

This condition affects your jawbone and your facial muscles, leading to generalized pain. A variety of treatments are available to alleviate your pain.

Relieving your pain 

• Take Medications: People with TMJ disorders can seek pain relief with over-the-counter medications such as painkillers and mild muscle relaxers. In addition, cold compresses and ice packs cool the jawbone, while moist heat can help loosen the muscles. 
• Change Your Diet: You can also make changes in your diet which could include eliminating especially chewy food like dried meat and gum or cutting back on caffeine. 
• Meditate and Relax: If your TMJ pain is caused by grinding and clenching your teeth, you can practice mindfulness throughout the day. When you are feeling stressed, consciously relaxing your jaw can help avoid strain. 
• Use a Nightguard or an Occlusal Guard: Seeing a dentist who can create a custom mouthguard for you to wear at night can be tremendously helpful.
• Botox: Talk to your provider about how botox can offer relief from the symptoms of your TMJ disorder.

People with serious TMJ disorders might need medical intervention. Our team here at Brooklyn City Dental can diagnose your TMJ and help you find a solution depending on the severity of your symptoms. 

Call our office at 718-577-9771 or book an appointment online today to learn more about how to get rid of your jaw pain.