Calling Your Oral Surgeon When Your Jaw Hurts
Posted on 12/15/2025 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center |
 Jaw pain can be a nuisance, affecting your daily life and making it difficult to eat, talk, and even sleep. While some jaw pain may be temporary and resolve on its own, other cases require professional attention. If you're experiencing persistent or severe jaw pain, it's important to consult an oral surgeon.
What Causes Jaw Pain?
Jaw pain can arise from various factors, including:
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Dental problems: Toothaches, impacted teeth, and dental infections can all contribute to jaw pain. |
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TMJ disorders: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders involve problems with the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This can cause pain, clicking, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth. |
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Trauma: Injuries to the jaw, such as fractures or dislocations, can cause significant pain and require immediate medical attention. |
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Sinus infections: Pain in the upper jaw can sometimes be caused by a sinus infection. |
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Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, can also cause jaw pain. |
When to See an Oral Surgeon for Jaw Pain
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms alongside your jaw pain, it's crucial to see an oral surgeon:
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Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relievers |
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Swelling in the jaw or face |
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Difficulty opening or closing your mouth |
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Numbness or tingling in the jaw or face |
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Pus discharge from the gums or teeth |
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Fever |
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Recent injury to the jaw |
What to Expect During Your Appointment
During your appointment, the oral surgeon will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical exam of your jaw and teeth. Depending on the suspected cause of your pain, they may order additional tests, such as X-rays or a CT scan.
Based on the diagnosis, the oral surgeon will recommend the appropriate treatment. This may involve:
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Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, antibiotics, or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. |
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Oral care: In some cases, proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help alleviate jaw pain. |
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Restoration dentistry: If your jaw pain is related to dental problems, such as cavities or missing teeth, restorative procedures like fillings, crowns, or bridges may be necessary. |
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TMJ treatment: For TMJ disorders, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, bite splints, or injections. |
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Surgery: In certain cases, surgery may be required to address the underlying cause of your jaw pain, such as removing an impacted tooth or repairing a fractured jaw. |
Conclusion
Jaw pain can have various causes, and it's important to seek professional help if you experience persistent or severe pain. An oral surgeon can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment to alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. Remember, early intervention is key to addressing jaw pain effectively and preventing further complications.
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Livermore: 925-290-7727
