Jaw Pain on One Side: Causes & Treatments

Jaw pain on one side can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can signal underlying issues ranging from common dental problems to rare medical conditions. 

This article discusses the various causes of unilateral jaw pain, offering insights into potential triggers and their corresponding treatments. Whether you’re experiencing a dull ache or a sharp, sudden pain, understanding the root of your discomfort is the first step towards finding relief and preventing future occurrences.

What Causes Jaw Pain on One Side?

Jaw pain on one side (unilateral jaw pain) can be concerning, but it’s not a sign of anything serious. Mild jaw pain usually resolves on its own.

However, severe jaw pain can be excruciating and requires medical attention or treatment. People can experience one-sided jaw pain for various reasons, some of which are common and others rare.

Some of the causes of unilateral jaw pain and their treatments include:

TMJ Disorders

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders cause pain and tenderness in the jaw and surrounding area. They can also cause jaw locking, ear pain, and a grinding sensation or clicking sound when using the jaw.

TMJ disorders are often treated with pain and anti-inflammatory medications, tricyclic antidepressants, and muscle relaxants. You may also benefit from mouth guards, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, TMJ disorders require surgery.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an infection of the tissues lining the sinus or nasal cavities. It can cause pain in the jaw or face and other symptoms, such as headaches, nasal congestion, cough, and fever.

It’s typically treated with nasal sprays, antibiotics, and pain relievers. However, if your sinusitis is caused by an infection, diseased tissue, or obstruction, you may need surgery.

Dental Problems

Several minor and severe dental issues can cause one-sided jaw pain. Examples include:

• An impacted or abscessed tooth 
• Infections
• Gum disease
• Cavities or tooth decay
• Wisdom tooth development 
• Crooked or missing teeth
• Jaw abnormalities
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)

In most cases, a dental professional may need to perform deep cleaning or dental surgery to treat these problems. You may also need to take antibiotics and take increased oral health measures.

Injury

Injuries to the jaw, such as a jaw dislocation or jaw fracture, can cause sudden pain on the impacted side. In some cases, stress can cause jaw injuries due to clenching or teeth grinding, which puts immense pressure on the jaw muscles and joints.

Minor jaw injuries may heal without specific treatment. But you may only be able to have liquid or soft foods while the jaw heals.

However, serious jaw injuries require surgery to move dislocated jaws back into place or to insert metal plates into the damaged bone to help it heal. In some cases, wires may be used to keep damaged bones in place during the healing process.

Rare Causes of Jaw Pain

In some cases, jaw pain is caused by rare conditions or disorders. These include:

Trigeminal Nerve Disorders

Trigeminal nerve disorders often cause facial spasms and painful sensations that feel like an electric shock or searing pain.

Treatments include:

• Antispasmodic or anticonvulsant medications
• Botox injections
• Surgery to remove, damage, or destroy the trigeminal nerve and its root

Salivary Gland Infections

The parotid glands that produce saliva can become infected (parotitis), resulting in pain and swelling. It’s typically treated with antibiotics and warm compresses. However, it may require draining the salivary duct or removing stones that may be causing the obstruction. 

Cysts and Tumors 

Though relatively rare, cysts and tumors can grow in the jawbone or surrounding tissues. They feel like hard or squishy lumps.

The best treatment for cysts and tumors depends on the type, stage of growth, and symptoms. However, many people undergo surgery or a combination of surgery and therapy.

Heart Attack

Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or blocked. It often requires medical attention.

In some cases, a heart attack can cause a painful jaw on one or both sides, especially in women. Seek emergency treatment or call 911 if jaw pain is accompanied by:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, light-headedness, or vomiting
• Pain or discomfort in other body parts, especially the arms and shoulders

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a bacterial bone infection that tends to develop in the lower jaw. People with osteomyelitis often experience fever and inflammation in addition to jaw pain.  

Antibiotics through an IV, are often needed to treat osteomyelitis. Many people also undergo surgery to remove infected or dead portions of bone.

When to See a Medical Professional for Jaw Pain

Talk to a dentist or healthcare provider if your jaw pain and swelling don’t go away after a few days, but especially if you experience the following:

• Worsening pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Problems opening or closing your mouth
• Bad taste
• Sensitive or bleeding gums

Seek emergency medical attention or call 911 if you have:

• A high fever
• Extreme pain or neck stiffness
• Vision changes
• Severe facial swelling 
• Shortness of breath
• Redness or swelling around the eyes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe bleeding 
• Pain in the arms or shoulders
• Light-headedness or confusion
• New, sudden pain

Remedies for Mild One-Sided Jaw Pain

For mild one-sided jaw pain, a hot or cold compress can alleviate pain and swelling. Massaging the jaw can also help alleviate some of the pain.

Over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate pain and swelling. During this time, you should avoid repetitive jaw motions, cold drinks, and cold food. Additionally, try to eat soft foods that are cut into small pieces.

Your dentist may also suggest using a custom-made oral appliance, such as a splint or mouth guard. These can help reposition your jaw and reduce clenching and teeth grinding.

How to Prevent Jaw Pain

Maintaining oral hygiene by brushing and flossing can help prevent bacteria buildup that can contribute to jaw pain. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help keep teeth and jaws healthy.

Physical therapy and jaw exercises can help improve jaw mobility and strengthen jaw muscles to prevent or reduce pain. You can also wear a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding.

Lastly, you can make some lifestyle changes to prevent jaw pain. These include properly managing stress, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.