Ever catch yourself wincing while enjoying your favourite meal? Sharp, persistent discomfort when biting or chewing turns eating into a stressful chore.
Many people believe that it could be due to mere fatigue or stress, but painful chewing generally points to an impending dental issue that one should not overlook.
Early identification of the root cause will save you from prolonged discomfort and more serious oral health problems later.
If you have been trying to find a local dentist, realizing the various possible causes and solutions constitutes the first step toward relief.
Common Dental Problems Causing Jaw Pain
Pain while eating may be caused by various dental problems. The following are some of the most common:
TMJ disorders are painful conditions that arise when the jaw joint becomes misaligned. Patients often notice clicking, popping, or stiffness along with their discomfort.
- Tooth decay/cavities: Severe decay may cause pressure and sensitivity during chewing.
- Gum disease: An infected or inflamed gum can reduce the pain in the jaw when hard foods are eaten.
- Cracked or fractured teeth: Even a small crack can cause severe pain
- Missing or misaligned teeth can make the jaws work unevenly, leading to strain on the muscles over time.
A dentist in South Edmonton will catch the exact cause of the pain and suggest the right option.
How to Relieve Jaw Pain From Teeth
Temporary relief can help you manage discomfort during the treatment. Use the below tips to reduce your jaw pain:
- Apply warm or cold compresses to the jaw to reduce pain and inflammation
- Avoid hard, chewy, and sticky food until the discomfort reduces.
- Practice gentle jaw exercises recommended by your dentist to relax muscles.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed by your dental professional.
- Book an appointment with a dentist near you to be properly checked.
Again, these are stopgap measures; the proper solution involves treating the dental problem that is causing the pain.
Understanding TMJ Disorder Symptoms
One common cause of pain when chewing is TMJ disorder. Some symptoms that can cause a TMJ disorder are
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Pain that radiates to the ears, neck, or shoulders
- Headaches associated with jaw tension
If you have these, a dentist may suggest remedies like mouth guards, physiotherapy, or other corrective treatments.
When to See a Dentist
Persistent pain in the jaw isn’t something that should be disregarded. A professional evaluation ensures that minor issues don’t escalate into chronic problems.
A dentist in South Edmonton will run a complete exam of your mouth and take X-rays to discuss the treatment options that fit your needs.
Whether it is a cavity, gum disease or a TMJ disorder, an early intervention can help with speedy recovery.
Protect Your Smile and Your Comfort
Jaw pain when chewing food is not a symptom to be trifled with; rather, it is a warning. Timely check and treatment from a dental professional can help prevent a type of increased suffering and rebuild the ability to eat comfortably.
At Landmark Dental, we identify and treat the source of your jaw pain, from TMJ therapy to restorative treatments, with personalized care so that you will be able to enjoy food and smiles without discomfort.
Don’t wait for the pain to take over; come for a consultation today and take a step toward relief.
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FAQs
Is the pain in the jaw related to problems with the teeth?
Cavities, cracks or misaligned teeth will put stress on the jaw muscle and cause you discomfort when chewing.
How long does jaw pain caused by dental issues last?
That depends on the cause. Temporary pains subside within days, but persistent pain has to be evaluated by a professional.
Are TMJ disorders permanent?
Not always, as treatments like bite adjustments, therapy or any kind of special appliance can minimize symptoms and improve jaw function.