Feeling pain on just one side of your jaw can be unsettling—especially when you can’t pinpoint the cause. While one-sided jaw discomfort can sometimes indicate a dental or muscular issue, it’s often not serious and can be managed with the right care. Still, it’s important to understand what might be causing your pain and when to see an emergency dentist for relief.
Common Causes of One-Sided Jaw Pain
1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
Your temporomandibular joints are the hinges that connect your jaw to your skull. When these joints become strained or inflamed, they can cause pain on one or both sides of the jaw. TMJ disorders often result from clenching your teeth, grinding at night, or misalignment of the bite. You may also notice clicking sounds when you open or close your mouth, headaches, or tenderness near the ear.
2. Dental Problems
A single aching tooth can radiate pain throughout one side of your jaw. Issues like cavities, cracked teeth, or abscesses can create localized discomfort that worsens when you chew. If you’re also experiencing swelling, sensitivity to temperature, or persistent pain, it’s important to contact your dentist quickly—these could be signs of infection that require urgent care.
3. Sinus Infections
Your upper jaw sits just below your sinus cavities, so when your sinuses become congested or infected, you may feel dull pressure or pain along your jawline, cheeks, or around your eyes. If you also have nasal congestion, postnasal drip, or facial fullness, sinus issues are likely contributing to your discomfort.
4. Injury or Overuse
Chewing on one side of your mouth more frequently, eating tough foods, or experiencing trauma—like a blow to the face—can strain the muscles and joints in your jaw. This repetitive stress or acute injury can lead to soreness and stiffness, usually resolving with rest, gentle stretching, and avoiding hard or chewy foods.
5. Tooth Misalignment or Missing Teeth
When your bite isn’t evenly balanced, one side of your jaw may absorb more pressure during chewing. Over time, this imbalance can cause joint or muscle pain. Missing teeth can also change how your upper and lower teeth come together, leading to uneven stress on the jaw.
When to See a Dentist
While mild jaw pain may go away on its own, persistent or worsening discomfort deserves attention. You should contact an emergency dentist if you notice swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or pain that interferes with eating and speaking. Early treatment can prevent the issue from becoming more serious and restore comfort quickly.
If your pain is caused by dental decay, infection, or bite misalignment, your dentist can provide targeted solutions such as fillings, root canal therapy, or bite adjustments to relieve the strain.
Jaw pain on one side can stem from a variety of causes—from muscle tension to dental infections—but most cases are treatable with prompt care. Paying attention to your symptoms and seeking dental help when needed ensures you can find relief and protect your oral health.
About the Practice
At Timeless Miles of Morgan Hill, Dr. Jenny Hong ensures patients receive gentle, comprehensive dental care in a comfortable environment. Dr. Hong and her team provide a wide range of services, including emergency dentistry, to address urgent pain and restore healthy smiles. If your jaw hurts or you’re simply overdue for a dental visit, stop by.
Call us at (408) 763-3008 or request an appointment online.