Jaw Pain on One Side: 8 Possible Causes

Jaw pain is a common problem experienced by Australians. It typically describes any discomfort in the temporomandibular (jaw) joint on either side of the face. On the face, the two joints are located in front of the ears, which are responsible for the movement of the jaw (e.g. chewing, talking).

According to the Australian Journal of General Practice, up to 60-70% of Australians experience jaw pain on at least one side.[1] There may be several reasons why people experience jaw pain. A wide range of conditions, including joint problems, dental issues and in rarer instances, heart attacks.

The article below will highlight several reasons why you may have jaw pain on one side and what treatments can ease it.

Red Flag for A Heart Attack

While usually not the cause of jaw pain, approximately 34-38% of people experiencing heart attacks also have jaw pain.[2] In fact, for 4% of people experiencing heart attacks, jaw pain is the only symptom.[2]

If you suspect that you or someone is showing signs of a heart attack and/or worsening pain over 10 minutes, call 000 immediately.

Other signs and symptoms of a heart attack include:

• Angina (chest pain and discomfort). This pain can spread to the arms, upper back, neck and jaw.

• Dizziness and light-headedness

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Difficulty breathing

• Sweating

Top 8 Causes of Jaw Pain on One Side

1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) helps connect the mandible (jaw bone) to the skull. Most people have two joints that allow the jaw to open, close and move around. These joints can be located around the front of the ear.

TMJ pain is often underreported or mistaken for other problems, such as teeth issues. According to a study based in Adelaide, approximately 10% of Australian adults experienced TMJ pain.[3]

Several reasons for developing TMJ pain include inflammation of a disc found between the joints, muscle spasm, or even arthritis. Examples of related symptoms include:

• Pain when chewing, yawning or talking

• Pain that shoots to the neck and/or scalp

• Locking of the jaw, particularly when opening and/or closing

• Clicking and popping of the jaw

• Headaches

• Pain around the ear.

2. Bruxism (Teeth clenching)

Bruxism is a problem where people excessively grind and/or clench their teeth involuntarily. This can occur when asleep or even during the day unknowingly. Over time, bruxism can lead to problems, such as chipped teeth, gum problems or even TMJ pain.

Several reasons for developing bruxism include emotional stress, anxiety, depression, side effects from specific medications, alcohol consumption, and caffeine use. Between 13-20% of adults may experience teeth clenching either at night or during the day.[4] Signs that you may grind or clench your teeth includes:

• Sensitive teeth

• Indentations along the side of your tongue

• Headaches

• Teeth and/or jaw pain, particularly after waking up in the morning

• Fatigue

• Regularly having poor night’s sleep.

3. Poor Posture

Poor posture, particularly regarding the positioning of the upper back and neck, can also lead to jaw pain. Our body’s posture relies on several factors, such as how the nerves are working, tissue flexibility and muscle strength. Any imbalances below the jaw can directly or indirectly affect these joints.

Some research suggests that even the posture in our trunks and feet may also impact the jaw.[5] Postures such as hyperkyphosis (hunched back) and/or forward head position increase the likelihood of developing conditions like TMJ pain.[6]

4. Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that affects the trigeminal nerve. This is a nerve found in the face responsible for the senses and movement (e.g. chewing, biting) around the face. Problems with this nerve (such as compression from the blood vessels) can ultimately lead to one-sided electric-shock jaw pain.

5. Dental Health Issues

Dental health problems, such as tooth or gum issues, can also cause one-sided jaw pain. Examples include:

• Tooth cavities

• Gum disease (gingivitis)

• Chipped or broken teeth

• Gum infections (periodontitis)

• Sensitive teeth

• Wisdom teeth.

Some signs that may indicate you may have a dental condition include:

• Pain when eating/drinking certain foods and drinks (e.g. cold, hot, sugary, etc.)

• Bad breath

• Bleeding near the gums or teeth

• Toothaches

• When there is visible holes, browning or cracks in the teeth

• Previous dental problems.

6. Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the sinus. Sinuses are empty spaces found behind the face which help humidify and filter the air breathed in. According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, almost 1.9 million Australians suffer from sinusitis.[7] As the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, pressure from these pockets can spread to the jaw.

Symptoms associated with sinusitis include:

• Blocked nose

• Runny and leaky nose

• Loss of smell

• Discoloured leaking from the nose

• Fluid running down the back of the throat

7. Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a condition where the bone becomes infected. While rare, the mandible (jaw bone) can become infected. However, this mainly occurs after the bone has been exposed after a dental procedure.[8] Since the use of antibiotics, the risk of osteomyelitis in the jaw has been reduced. Examples of symptoms associated with osteomyelitis in the jaw include:

• Swelling along the cheeks

• Fever

• Tenderness along the cheek and jaw

• Fatigue

• Stiffness in the jaw.

8. Tumours and Cysts

Tumours and cysts are abnormal growths that can develop in various body parts, including the jaw bone. While rare, these growths can also cause jaw pain on one side.[9] Signs and symptoms include:

• Speaking difficulties

• Blocked nose

• Loose teeth

• Swelling in the jaw

• Multiple ulcers around the mouth.

Home Treatments for Jaw Pain Relief

Depending on the jaw pain, professional help may not be required. Listed below are some home treatments which may help ease discomfort.

• Heat and/or ice therapy: Heat and ice therapies are routinely used for pain relief. Ice helps numb the painful area, whereas heat helps heal and relax the affected area.

• Over-the-counter medication: Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease jaw pain. Drugs such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be purchased at chemists and/or supermarkets without prescriptions.

• Rest and avoid aggravating activities: Avoid eating hard or chewy foods, such as nuts, gum or lollies. Repetitive and vigorous activities of the jaw can aggravate pain.

• Massage: Muscle tightness around the cheeks, jaw and neck areas can sometimes lead to jaw pain. Massage helps increase blood flow to the muscles to loosen up these tight structures.

• Deep breathing: Deep breathing can help relieve emotional stress and relax the tight muscles around the jaw.

• Stress management: Personal, physical and emotional stresses increase the risk for developing specific jaw pain conditions (e.g. TMJ pain, bruxism). Finding your ways to relieve stress (e.g. meditation, rest, reducing stressful activities) may ease jaw pain.

Physiotherapy for Jaw Pain on One Side

Physiotherapists are beginning to see more patients with jaw pain due to a rise in cases. While most physiotherapists can help with mild cases, specialist jaw physiotherapists may be required for long-term or severe conditions.

Therapists can offer assessments and treatments to people with conditions like TMJ pain, bruxism, poor posture, and sometimes, even trigeminal neuralgia. Some examples of treatments include:

• Corrective exercises

• Massage and mobilisations

• Taping

• Non-medicated pain relief (e.g. TENs, dry needling)

• Postural advice

• Lifestyle changes

• Stress management.

Medical Treatment

Some of these conditions may also require a consultation from a relevant health professional, such as a doctor, dentist and specialist. Specifically, dentists can also assist with many of the listed jaw pain conditions. They will be able to provide a diagnosis, treatment and an appropriate management plan.

For instance, those with bruxism can wear custom-made night guards to help protect the teeth and jaw from further damage. Additionally, medications can also be prescribed, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and pain relief drugs. Other conditions, such as temporomandibular joint pain, would benefit from input from multiple practitioners.

Key takeaways

Jaw pain is a major problem for many people. The ability to talk, eat, and even sleep can be impacted. There are many causes of jaw pain, including TMJ pain, grinding teeth, dental problems and even sinusitis.

Although there are some home treatments for jaw pain, seeing a healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, dentist or doctor, is advised. They will be able to provide a diagnosis, treatment options and long-term management plan.