5 Things That Can Lead to Jaw Pain on One Side

Are you currently experiencing jaw pain limited to one side of your face? If so, it’s important to identify the potential causes behind this discomfort. Jaw pain can be a concerning symptom that may stem from various factors. Understanding the possible underlying reasons can help you determine the appropriate course of action for relief and treatment. keep reading as we explore five potential causes of one-sided jaw pain.

#1: Sinusitis

Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, occurs when the nasal passage cavities become inflamed. Acute sinusitis is commonly triggered by a cold or allergies, usually without complications. However, chronic sinusitis can arise from infection or growth. Inflammation in the sinus cavities located behind the cheeks can result in jaw discomfort on one or both sides.

#2: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

Experiencing tenderness near the jaw, earaches, difficulty in opening the mouth, or hearing popping or clicking sounds? These symptoms may indicate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. The TMJ, located in front of the ears on both sides of the face, can be affected by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD occurs when the joint’s separating disk is damaged or misaligned, resulting in discomfort on one or both sides of the jaw.

#4: Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an uncommon infection that affects the bone and arises when bacteria penetrate the bone tissue. Following oral surgery, the jawbone becomes especially susceptible to the development of osteomyelitis.

Furthermore, severe dental issues or injuries to the mouth can contribute to the occurrence of this infection. Individuals with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent severe complications.

#4: Trigeminal Neuralgia

The trigeminal nerve, a major nerve divided into three parts in the head, carries sensory information such as touch, temperature, and pain signals from the face to the brain. Trigeminal neuralgia is a rare condition marked by facial pain that originates from this nerve.

The pain emerges when the trigeminal nerve experiences abnormal pressure, often caused by brain abnormalities or injury. Such disturbances can disrupt the regular functioning of the nerve, resulting in intense pain on a single side of the face.

#5: Cysts and Tumors

Cysts are fluid or semisolid-filled growths, often benign, whereas tumors are abnormal masses of tissue caused by excessive cell growth. Both types of growths can cause jaw pain and have negative impacts on oral health, potentially causing tooth misalignment. Fortunately, dentists can detect these growths early through X-ray examinations, allowing for prompt treatment.

While occasional jaw pain may not be alarming, there are circumstances that warrant seeking assistance from an emergency dentist. If unsure, it is recommended to contact their office for guidance. Taking this step ensures that any underlying significant issues contributing to your discomfort are promptly addressed, enabling you to receive the necessary care.

About the Practice

Seeking relief from one-sided jaw pain? Look no further than Dr. Mark D. Medaugh and the caring team at Valley Dentists of Belchertown. Their mission is to preserve your dental health by identifying the source of your pain and delivering the appropriate treatment to restore your beam. If you want to discover more about their services or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Medaugh, contact Valley Dentists of Belchertown at (413) 323-4335 or visit their website.