Jaw pain can be annoying at best and alarming at worst—especially when it seems to be isolated to one side of your mouth. You might think it’s just from chewing too much gum or sleeping awkwardly, but there could be more going on. Some causes are minor, while others require a dentist’s attention right away. Here’s what could be behind your one-sided jaw pain and when you should declare a dental emergency.
Common Causes of Isolated Jaw Pain
So, what’s happening in your mouth? It can be difficult to tell exactly what’s bothering you without seeing your dentist for a consultation. However, the issues below are common and should give you a good place to start:
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
Your temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull, and if one becomes irritated, you’ll feel it, sometimes on just one side. TMD can result from teeth grinding, clenching, stress, or even arthritis.
Dental Infections or Abscesses
If bacteria reaches deep into your tooth, it can cause an infection that spreads into your jaw. This pain is usually intense and may be accompanied by swelling or fever, which are signs you should call your dentist immediately.
Sinus Infections
When your upper sinuses are inflamed, the pressure can radiate into your jaw, sometimes affecting just one side of your face. If it’s just congestion versus a toothache, you might also notice tenderness in your face, headaches, and “hazy” thoughts.
Injury or Trauma
A blow to the face, a sports injury, or even a hard fall can leave your jaw aching. Any injury that affects how your jaw moves should be checked by a professional. If you suspect a break, head to the ER, but if it’s related to your teeth, see your dentist.
When Is Jaw Pain a Dental Emergency?
Call an emergency dentist right away if your jaw pain is paired with:
- Swelling in your face or jaw
- Fever or chills
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- Signs of infection, like redness or pus
These symptoms can be a blinking warning light pointing to an infection or injury that needs urgent care to prevent more serious complications.
What You Can Do Until You See Your Dentist
While you wait for your appointment, you can:
- Apply a cold compress to the sore side
- Eat soft foods to reduce strain
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers (if approved by your doctor)
- Avoid chewing gum or clenching your jaw—both can make the pain worse.
Jaw pain on one side might be a passing nuisance, or it could be a sign of something serious. Paying attention to your symptoms and getting timely dental care can make all the difference. If in doubt, it’s always better to call your dentist and get checked out!
About the Author
Dr. David Nisenboym is a dedicated dentist who combines advanced training with a compassionate approach to care. He graduated from the University of the Pacific Dental School, and has extensive experience in specialty procedures like dental implant placement, root canal treatment, and gum surgery. He’s always happy to help patients in pain find relief fast. Call (925) 934-3395 to schedule an emergency dentistry appointment at Blue Wave Dental or visit our website to learn more.
