Six Causes for Jaw Pain

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

06 Nov 2009 04:36 PM

Sometimes, a health issue is straightforward: you experience pain in an area of the body, and that's where the problem is. Sometimes, where it hurts isn't where the problem actually is.

The jaw is an area of the body where there's a few different things going on -- you've got your teeth and sinuses and ears in close proximity, and pain in any one of those three could leave you with an achy jaw.

So what could that jaw pain be?

• If the pain appears at the hinge of your jaw when you open your mouth wide, there may be a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Sometimes, pain in the jaw does signify a problem with the jaw! You can find some tips for relieving problems with TMJ here at the Families.com Health Blog!
• Sometimes, grinding your teeth can lead to pain in the jaw (and other parts of the mouth). If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. For more information about bruxism, start here!
• Sometimes, other issues with your teeth can lead to pain in the jaw -- especially in the molars. Bacteria in your mouth can lead to a painful abscess.
• Certain ear issues can cause pain in your jaw. The first (and only) time I had swimmer's ear, I felt the pain all the way down the side of my face and into my jaw.
• Sinus pain or pressure can sometimes be felt in your jaw. Dealing with the sinus issue can relieve the pain all over your face -- sinuses are located in your cheeks, forehead, and around the nose.
• Heart attack. Yes, you read that correctly. Some people who are having a heart attack experience pain outside the chest -- and the jaw is one place where the pain can show up.

Jaw pain can signify a problem that is anywhere from inconvenient to life threatening. If you aren't sure what is to blame for your discomfort, talk to your doctor or another health care professional.

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Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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