The jaw, medically known as the mandible, can be a source of pain for various reasons. In some cases, the cause is obvious such as in the case of a breakage. Sometimes, underlying medical problems can lead to lower jaw pain. Stress can also lead to jaw discomfort. The causes of lower jaw pain require specific treatments.
Broken or Dislocated Jaw
A broken or dislocated jaw can lead to lower jaw pain. MedlinePlus says that symptoms of a dislocated jaw include pain in the face or lower ear, trouble closing the mouth, trouble speaking, drooling, a protruding jaw and teeth that aren't aligned.
Lower jaw pain can worsen with eating, jaw stiffness, facial numbness, loose teeth, bleeding from the mouth and a lump in the cheek or jaw. A broken jaw can also lead to facial bruising, facial swelling, facial numbness and problems opening the mouth.
MedlinePlus says that a broken or dislocated jaw is typically the result of trauma incurred during an assault, a car accident or a sports injury.
Management for a dislocated jaw involves manipulating the jaw back into place. A medical professional will inject an anesthetic medication into the jaw region first.
Surgery is necessary to treat a broken jaw so wires can be placed to keep it stable.
TMJ Disorder
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is a condition in which 5 to 15 percent of people in the United States develop pain as a result of TMJ disorder, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofascial Research.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include pain or tenderness of the upper and lower jaw, pain around the ears, facial pain, a headache and locking of the joint. TMJ disorder can also lead to an uneven bite and a headache.
The temporomandibular joint is a hinge-like joint that allows the mouth to open and close. Sometimes arthritis can damage the joint and in some cases, the disc located within the joint can protrude. The muscles surrounding the jaw can also become fatigued.
Treatment for TMJ disorders involves taking such medications as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, corticosteroid drugs, botulism toxin and muscle relaxants to decrease the pain. A bite guard might be necessary to protect the teeth. In some cases, a dental appliance or a needle can be placed into the joint to remove any debris. Surgery is a treatment option available to repair the dysfunctional jaw.
Bruxism
Bruxism refers to grinding or clenching of the teeth. Bruxism can lead to lower or upper jaw pain, a headache, trouble sleeping, depression and anxiety. MedlinePlus says that bruxism can also lead to tension, stress and eating disorders.
It is unclear what causes bruxism but stress can trigger it.
A splint, teeth guards, stress reduction and stretching of the jaw muscles through physical therapy exercises are some of the ways to manage bruxism.
