Lower jaw pain can indicate several potential causes, including TMJ, arthritis, bone metastases, heart problems, and dental issues. Early diagnosis is important for proper treatment, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
Lower jaw pain can be quite a painful symptom and can lead to difficulty speaking, chewing or swallowing. There are several potential causes of jaw pain, and it’s important for people to see a doctor or dentist to get an accurate diagnosis. Some possible causes may include injury or bone or joint disease. In some cases, heart problems, including a heart attack, can lead to jaw pain. Treatment depends on the direct cause of the pain, making early diagnosis vital.
A condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is one of the most common causes of lower jaw pain. The temporomandibular joint is responsible for connecting the lower jaw to the skull. TMJ can be aggravated or caused by medical conditions such as arthritis or teeth grinding, although the direct cause isn’t always easy to identify. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth wide. Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, the use of prescribed medications, or surgery.
Arthritis, or inflammation of the joints, is another common cause of lower jaw pain. Arthritis can be caused by injury to the joint or supporting structures or it can develop as a natural part of the aging process. Arthritis symptoms can include pain, stiffness, and swelling. Treatment typically involves the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications and moderate lifestyle changes.
Bone metastases, or abnormal bone growths, are a leading cause of jaw pain. Cancer, especially bone cancer, is a common cause of this medical condition. It is important for people to have this problem treated to prevent the jaw from cracking and causing serious medical complications.
Dental problems can also sometimes lead to jaw pain, and these problems can typically be diagnosed during a routine dental exam. Some of these potential dental problems include untreated cavities or wisdom teeth that have been removed. In fact, any type of dental surgery has the potential to cause pain in the mouth and jaw. The original dental condition should be treated to ease the discomfort.
Lower jaw pain is often treated with over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, although stronger pain medications may be prescribed in severe cases. Resting or mild jaw exercises may be recommended, depending on the exact cause of the jaw pain. In rare cases, surgery may be required.
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