Jaw pain can be really frustrating, especially when you aren't sure where it is coming from. It can be related to how you sleep, the health of your teeth, and the way the jaw joint itself is positioned. Here are some common causes of jaw pain so you know when it is time to see a dentist.

You Have TMJ Disease

One of the most common causes of pain in the jaw is from a condition called TMJ disease. This is a disease of the temporomandibular joint, which goes from the bones in the skull to the jaw. When you open and close your mouth or chew food, this is the joint that is helping you do that. However, if you get a lot of inflammation and swelling of the joint, it can lead to TMJ disease, where it causes pain and locking of the joint. Your dentist should be able to provide you with some treatment options if this is the condition you have.

You Have a Tooth Infection

Infections are another common reason to have pain in your jaw. While the pain often starts in the tooth itself and the surrounding areas, it can then radiate to your jaw, ears, and your sinuses. If it seems like the jaw pain is hard to pinpoint, where that entire side of your mouth and face is hurting, it is likely due to an infection in one of your teeth. Some other signs of dental infections include having a headache or bad ear pain, swelling on that side of the face, or a white bump on your gums caused by a dental abscess.

You Have Been Grinding Your Teeth

Jaw pain doesn't always have to be related to a major dental problem. It is possible that it comes down to bad habits causing your jaw pain. For example, you might have a sore jaw because you are clenching or grinding your teeth. If you have been stressed, you might be clenching your teeth during tense moments throughout the day and not realizing it until you start feeling pain. Grinding your teeth is common at night, so getting a mouth guard for sleeping can help a lot.

Keep in mind that jaw pain can also be acute, where it is temporary and just related to recent habits, like using your teeth to bite your nails, which puts stress on the jaw. However, it is still a good idea to talk to your dentist and find out if it is from a dental issue.