What causes pain in the jaw while eating and talking?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had problems with my jaw for a few years now. I experience popping noises, and I cannot open my mouth very wide. Then it started making uncomfortable sounds. It sounded like something was tearing, and it hurts when I talk or eat. Now it has gotten a lot worse.

When I open my mouth, my jaw and the bottom lip move to the right instead of opening normally (straight). I have a lot of pain and swelling. I do not take any medications, and I have not seen a doctor.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am here to answer your queries.

The signs and symptoms that you have described are typical of temporomandibular joint disorder.

The pain in the early mornings, the clicking sound of the jaws, and the deviation of the mandible towards one side are classic symptoms. The reason is that the joint lacks a cushioning effect and slides roughly between the two bones, just like in the knees, and the pain is because of muscle fatigue.

I suggest you visit your nearby dentist to get a complete check-up done and take TMJ X-rays.

The initial treatment would be fabricating a mouth guard for your teeth to avoid the jaw joints sliding in a rough manner.

This mouthguard is to be worn daily, especially at night time for better results.

Further, a complete treatment plan should be framed for you depending on the severity of the condition.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.