Jaw pain isn’t something that should be taken lightly. It can be a debilitating issue that impacts your ability to perform daily tasks. You should visit an experienced dentist if you’re experiencing symptoms such as trouble chewing, headaches, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, clicking or ringing in your ears, and/or persistent tenderness or discomfort in your lower face.
Potential Causes of Jaw Pain
Jaw pain can occur for many reasons. It can be difficult to determine the exact problem on your own. Our dentist will perform a thorough evaluation to figure out the source of your discomfort.
Some common causes of jaw and facial pain include:
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
- Gum disease
- Tooth grinding or clenching
- Infection
- Toothache
- Sinus problems
- Injury
Many of these problems can get worse if left unaddressed. They may cause further damage to your teeth and gums that will often require more complex treatments. You owe it to yourself to seek prompt dental care if you suspect that you are suffering from any of these conditions.
Dental Treatments for Facial Pain
Determining the cause of your jaw pain is a great first step. It will allow our dentist to suggest appropriate treatments for your unique situation. These treatments may include things like:
- TENS therapy
- Dental work
- Custom orthotic appliances
- Physical therapy
- Heat or ice therapy
- Posture and behavioral adjustments
Symptoms that get better and come back may indicate the presence of jaw joint issues. If you suspect that you’re dealing with this problem, you can read about how to calm a TMJ flare-up.
Contact Our Oakton Dentist for Help Today
Many people assume that they’ll have to live with their chronic jaw and facial pain. Fortunately, that’s not the case, thanks to the safe and effective dental treatment options available today.
If you’re ready to find relief for jaw pain, call 703-319-6990 to schedule a consultation with skilled dentist Dr. Michael Chung. Softouch Dental Care serves patients from Oakton, Vienna, McLean, and nearby areas of northern Virginia. Our team looks forward to meeting you.
