Tooth and Jaw Pain

Many people delay trips to the dentist because they dread the discomfort of dental treatments. However, tooth and jaw pain associated with untreated oral health problems can be far more severe than the discomfort of preventive procedures. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends getting regular dental checkups to spot potential problems before they become painful.

Tooth Pain Causes

According to the Mayo Clinic, tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth pain. Tooth decay occurs when plaque and tartar deposits sitting on your teeth eat through the enamel and produce cavities, which can cause mild, moderate or severe tooth pain, depending on the cavity's size. If your tooth develops an infection known as an abscess, your pain may become even more severe. Tooth pain is also associated with tooth sensitivity. Temperature-sensitive teeth make it painful to eat and drink anything that is hot or cold.

Jaw Pain Causes

Severe cases of tooth decay can also cause pain in your jaw as well as your teeth, especially if you have an abscess that has spread to your jawbone. Another common cause of jaw pain is temporomandibular jaw dysfunction (TMJ), which results from repeatedly grinding your teeth and clenching your jaws to the extent that you put excessive pressure on your jaw muscles. Jaw pain related to a toothache or TMJ can make your jaws feel sore, stiff and difficult to open or close.

Treatments

To get treatment for tooth and jaw pain, you must visit your dentist. If your tooth and jaw pain are the result of tooth decay, your dentist may give you a filling if the damage is mild or a root canal if the damage is severe. If your tooth has an abscess, you may need a course of antibiotics to cure the infection. Jaw pain related to TMJ can often be corrected with an orthodontic brace or a dental splint.

Complications

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), waiting too long to address the cause of your tooth and jaw pain may put you at risk for developing potentially serious complications. Symptoms such as red gums, a bad taste in your mouth, a fever or swollen glands may indicate the presence of a complication. Extensive tooth decay may eventually cause you to lose the tooth. If you have a severe abscess, the infection may potentially spread to other places in your body.

Prevention

Tooth and jaw pain can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Taking preventive measures can help you avoid this pain before it starts. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing your teeth daily to help prevent tooth decay. Decreased tooth decay means fewer cavities and less tooth pain. Additionally, wearing a mouth guard at night can help reduce TMJ-related pain by preventing you from grinding your teeth while you sleep.