What Causes Jawbone Pain?
Pain in the jawbone, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, can be caused by a variety of factors. These can include trauma, misalignment of the jaw, grinding or clenching of the teeth, inflammatory arthritis or jaw muscle tension. Other causes of jawbone pain can be related to a dental problem, such as an infection, an abscessed tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to TMJ pain, as can poor posture.
Diagnosing Jawbone Pain
If you are experiencing pain in your jawbone, it is important to visit your doctor or dentist to have the condition properly diagnosed. Your doctor will ask about your medical and dental history and may also examine your jaw and the area around it. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may order imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans or MRIs, to get a better look at the jawbone and surrounding area.
Treating Jawbone Pain
Treatment for jawbone pain will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, a combination of lifestyle changes, such as avoiding hard and chewy foods, using a splint or mouthguard to reduce grinding and clenching of the teeth, and physical therapy, may be enough to reduce the pain. In other cases, medications, such as muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories or antidepressants, may be prescribed. If the pain is caused by a dental problem, a root canal, dental surgery or other dental procedures may be necessary. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
