5 Things That Can Lead to Jaw Pain on One Side

Experiencing any kind of pain in your jaw can be a cause for concern. From cavities to serious help concerns, there is a range of things that can cause this kind of discomfort. Though you may expect the issue to affect your whole jaw, sometimes you can only feel it on one side of your face. Read on to learn about five things that can cause you to experience jaw pain on one side. 

#1: Sinusitis

Also called a sinus infection, having sinusitis means that the cavities surrounding the nasal passages are inflamed. Acute sinusitis can be caused by a cold or allergies, and complications are uncommon. Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, can happen as the result of an infection or growth. Inflammation of the sinus cavities behind the cheeks may cause discomfort on one or both sides of the jaw.

#2: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

If you are experiencing tenderness near the jaw, earaches, have trouble opening your mouth, or experience popping or clicking when you do so, you may have an issue with your temporomandibular joints. Also called the TMJ, these joints are located in front of your ears on either side of your face. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs when the disk that separates the bones and helps the joints move is damaged or misaligned. This can cause discomfort on one or both sides of your jaw.

#4: Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a rare bone infection that develops when bacteria enter the bone. The jawbone may be at risk of developing osteomyelitis after you undergo oral surgery. Severe dental issues and injuries to your mouth can also cause this infection to develop. Conditions that impact immune health can also make you more susceptible. Prompt treatment can prevent serious complications from developing.

#4: Trigeminal Neuralgia

The large, three-part nerve in your head that is responsible for sending touch, temperature, and pain sensations from your face to your brain is called the trigeminal nerve. Trigeminal neuralgia is a rare condition characterized by pain coming from this nerve. This occurs when abnormal pressure is put on it, usually due to brain abnormalities or an injury. This can keep the trigeminal nerve from functioning correctly and may result in severe pain on one side of the face.

#5: Cysts and Tumors

Cysts are growths that are filled with a semisolid substance or liquid. They are usually noncancerous. Tumors, on the other hand, are masses of tissue. They form when cells grow and divide at a faster rate than they should or they don’t die when they’re supposed to. Both kinds of growths can cause jaw pain and have a negative impact on your oral health. If they grow fast enough, they can even push your teeth out of place. Fortunately, your dentist can detect them by taking X-rays.

Though some types of jaw pain are nothing to worry about, others may require a visit to your emergency dentist. When in doubt, contact their office for assistance. This way, if something serious is causing your discomfort, you can receive the care you need to feel as good as new in no time!

About the Practice

Jaw pain on one side can make it difficult to make it through the day. Luckily, Dr. Zack Walker and his skilled team of Kernersville oral health professionals are here to help. They can figure out what’s causing the pain and administer the treatment you need to get your oral health back on track. To make an appointment with Dr. Zack Walker or for more information, visit his website or call his office at (336) 993-3727.