5 Reasons Why Your Jaw Might Hurt on One Side

Have you suddenly started experiencing pain on one side of your jaw? There could be multiple explanations, some of which are more serious than others. Being aware of what can cause one-sided jaw pain is important for knowing when you need to give your emergency dentist a call. Here are 5 reasons why your jaw might hurt. 

1. Some Type of Dental Problem

Jaw pain can be a side effect of a variety of dental issues. Maybe you’re grinding and clenching your teeth at night due to bruxism. Perhaps one of your teeth has become extensively damaged or decayed. Or you might be suffering from gum disease. All of these dental problems should be treated by a professional as soon as possible so that they don’t lead to larger complications.

2. TMJ Disorder

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) allows you to move your jaw to bite, speak, or chew. You have a TMJ on both sides of your head; if one of them suffers from damage or a misaligned disc, the result is a TMJ disorder that might cause one-sided jaw pain. You may also notice additional symptoms such as an earache or having trouble opening your mouth.

Arthritis, bruxism, jaw injury, and/or misaligned teeth could all potentially lead to TMJ disorder. You will need a professional’s help to narrow down the cause and determine the best course of treatment.

3. Sinusitis

The maxillary sinuses are located behind your cheeks. If they become inflamed (which might be the result of a cold, allergies, or certain medical conditions), they could start causing jaw pain. Sinus inflammation usually gets better on its own, and antibiotics can often go a long way toward helping you find relief. It’s recommended that you call your general physician if the issue lasts for more than a week.

4. Heart Attack

Pain on the left side of your jaw can sometimes be a symptom of a heart attack. If this is the case, you may notice other warning signs, such as:

• Recurring chest pain.
• Having trouble breathing.
• Experiencing nausea and stomach pain.
• Feeling dizzy and lightheaded.

Heart attack symptoms can come on all at once, but they can also develop over the course of multiple days. Either way, you should get in touch with an emergency room immediately if you think you might have heart problems.

5. Rare Conditions

Sometimes, your jaw pain might be the result of a rarer condition. For example, a tumor or a cyst may have formed on one side of your jaw. If you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort, you should call your dentist or doctor immediately to see what they suggest.

About the Practice

Here at Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry, we have three knowledgeable dental experts who share a passion for helping patients smile. We’re happy to offer emergency appointments for patients with concerning symptoms such as serious jaw pain. To schedule a consultation at our office in Lynchburg, please visit our website or call (434) 847-5331.