Severe pain, swelling, or facial trauma?
Call us now — we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental problems.
Symptom guide
Jaw pain — what to do
Jaw pain can come from the joint itself, the muscles around it, or your bite. Most cases are treatable with conservative care.
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Possible causes
Common reasons behind jaw pain. Only an exam can confirm the cause for you.
- ✓Clenching or grinding teeth, often at night
- ✓TMJ (temporomandibular joint) inflammation or disc displacement
- ✓Muscle tension from stress, posture, or a recent dental visit
- ✓A bite that does not come together evenly
- ✓Less commonly, an infected tooth referring pain into the jaw
When to come in — or call right away
Any of the following deserves prompt evaluation. Call us today.
- ⚠Jaw locked open or closed — you cannot move it normally
- ⚠Severe swelling along the jaw or under the chin
- ⚠Fever combined with jaw pain
- ⚠Sudden jaw pain on one side with chest pain, shortness of breath, or arm pain — call 911 (can be a heart symptom in some patients)
- ⚠Pain after a recent injury, especially if your teeth no longer fit together the way they used to
What you can try right now
These are general suggestions, not medical advice. Follow the directions on any product you use, and ask your dentist or doctor if you are unsure.
- •Soft foods for a few days — give the muscles a rest.
- •Warm compress on the side of the jaw for 10–15 minutes at a time.
- •Avoid chewing gum, ice, or anything that requires wide opening (large sandwiches, apples).
- •Gentle jaw stretches; do not force range of motion.
- •Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever per package directions, if appropriate for you.
How KinDentists treats jaw pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause — here are the services that most often resolve this for our patients.
Preventive Care
Dental Exams & Professional Cleanings
Routine dental exams and professional cleanings to maintain oral health, catch issues early, and build a clear treatment plan.
Urgent Care
Emergency Dental Care
Urgent dental care for tooth pain, broken teeth, and dental emergencies. Same-day appointments available.
Restorative Care
Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations
Dental crowns, bridges, and restorative treatments to repair damaged teeth and restore function and appearance.
Common questions
Jaw Pain FAQ
Other common symptoms
Not sure what to do next?
Call us — we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today or whether it can wait for a routine visit. Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.