Why Does My Jaw Hurt When I Chew?
Experiencing pain in your jaw while chewing can be more than just uncomfortable—it may be a sign of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This condition affects the functionality of the jaw joints and muscles that control jaw movement, often making everyday activities like chewing, talking, and yawning painful.
TMJ disorder can arise from various factors, such as arthritis, jaw injury, or chronic clenching and grinding of teeth, also known as bruxism. Some people may even inherit a natural predisposition to TMJ problems. Symptoms often include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, especially near the ear
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the jaw joint
When you chew, the TMJ is actively engaged, moving the jaw up and down and side to side. If the joint is inflamed, misaligned, or damaged, these movements can cause significant pain. The act of chewing can exacerbate underlying issues, leading to increased discomfort and irritation in the joint.
Treating TMJ disorder often begins with conservative measures aimed at reducing stress on the joints, such as eating softer foods and using heat or cold packs to help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. A custom-made night guard may be recommended to address teeth grinding and jaw clenching, thus reducing jaw pain and preventing tooth wear and tear. Additional options for more severe cases include undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct alignment issues or pursuing oral surgery to help repair damaged joint structures.
If your jaw hurts when you chew, it is advisable not to ignore these symptoms. At Roberts Dental Group, cosmetic dentist Justin Roberts, DDS and family dentist Olivia Straka, DDS understand how jaw pain can disrupt your dental health, day-to-day life, and overall well-being. They can address TMJ disorder symptoms to help you find relief and restore the normal function of your jaw. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life, allowing you to enjoy chewing pain-free.
To learn more about jaw pain and TMJ disorder, or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today.