Pain in the temporomandibular joint can be tough to deal with. Accordingly, the first step to treating jaw pain is to determine the underlying cause of it. The team at the Dental Clinic of Onalaska strives to help their patients address common issues including pain and discomfort in the jaw. That’s why these dentists offer the following advice to help their Wisconsin patients to get the treatment they need.

A Dentist on 3 Common Causes of Jaw Pain

1. Arthritis

For people with arthritis, jaw pain is a common occurrence. While you can take it easy on other joints in your body, this is not the case with your jaw, which is used for talking, eating, and even yawning. Physical therapy is often effective when arthritis plays a role, as it can stretch your jaw joints to help reduce tightness and associated pain. Anti-inflammatory medications also prove helpful for jaw pain associated with arthritis. If your pain is particularly severe and the above methods aren’t successful, consider paying a visit to a family dentist.

2. Grinding or Clenching Teeth

Jaw pain can also be caused by chronic teeth clenching or grinding. Known as bruxism, this condition typically takes place at night and can even cause damage to the jaw joint when it occurs over an extended period of time. Mouthguards can help reduce damage to both teeth as well as the jaw, provided they are worn according to a dentist’s instructions.

3. Injury

Trauma to the jaw joint, which often results from car accidents, is another cause of pain and discomfort. To get a solid understanding of the extent of the damage, X-rays or cat scans will need to be taken. From there your dentist will devise a treatment plan. In some cases you’ll be instructed to eat soft foods or liquids until the pain subsides. For more serious issues like a broken jaw, a dentist might recommend wiring the mouth shut until your jaw has completely healed.  

Whether you suffer from chronic jaw pain or are in need of a more comprehensive procedure like dental implants, the Dental Clinic of Onalaska has the knowledge and ability to provide a safe and effective treatment. Schedule an appointment with a dentist today by calling (608) 783-3341. You can also visit them online for a complete list of services.