Why Would My Jaw Hurt on Only One Side?

While the sudden onset of jaw pain can be startling and frustrating, it thankfully isn’t usually a big deal. However, it may be a sign of a more serious issue such as an oral infection if it is accompanied by certain symptoms or if it lasts for a long time. Here’s a brief guide to why your jaw may hurt on only one side as well as how to tell if you should seek care from an emergency dentist.

What Can Cause Jaw Pain on One Side?

One-sided jaw pain may result from a variety of issues, and they don’t always represent dental emergencies. A few causes include:

• Untreated TMJ disorders: The TMJ is the complex joint that holds the jaw in place and allows it to move. A problem in the joint on one side of the jaw may lead to discomfort there.
• Sinusitis: This condition happens when the sinus tissues become inflamed, which can result in difficulty breathing, soreness in the molars, and possibly jaw pain that may only be on one side.
• Dental problems: Untreated oral infections or bad habits like teeth grinding may lead to jaw pain on one side of the mouth.
• Trigeminal neuralgia: This chronic condition results from the trigeminal nerve in the head becoming pinched. This can cause severe pain in places such as the jaw, but the condition is thankfully rare.
• Osteomyelitis: This condition may happen if bacteria infect the jawbone after oral surgery, and it requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious damage.
• Salivary gland stones: The salivary glands produce the saliva the mouth needs to stay healthy, and painful infections can occur near the jaw if they become blocked.

When Should I Seek Help from My Emergency Dentist?

If your jaw pain becomes chronic, seeing your dentist may be the best way to find relief. Contact your emergency dentist if you experience symptoms like:

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, breathing, or drinking
• Pain that makes moving your mouth difficult
• Persistent swelling or fever
• A sudden burst of unpleasant tasting salty liquid in the mouth, as this may be a sign of a dental abscess.

If your jaw pain isn’t a long-term problem yet, you might try treating it at home with over-the-counter pain relievers or a cold compress until the issue goes away. However, contact your emergency dentist if the problem becomes chronic. Even if they find that the issue isn’t one that they can solve at their office, they may be able to refer you to another medical professional who can help.

About the Practice

Weldon Dental of Rome is dedicated to providing its community with excellent oral healthcare. Led by Dr. Ryan and Leigh Weldon, the staff treats each patient with sincere compassion as well as remarkable customer service. Areas of expertise include pediatric services, dental implants, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about your jaw pain, dial (706) 232-2082. For more information, contact the staff online.