Chronic Pain in Jaw Muscles After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions

Q: Chronic Pain in Jaw Muscles After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions

Hello： It is recommended to visit the oral and maxillofacial surgery department or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) clinic at a medical center. <br>Inform the physician about this condition to determine if a CT scan of the head and neck is necessary or if a referral to neurology

Pain in the muscles behind the wisdom teeth for many years?

About four years ago, I had my lower left horizontal wisdom tooth extracted.
Since then, the muscle tissue in the posterior area has been swollen and painful, possibly due to prolonged mouth opening during the extraction or a muscle strain.
The swelling has persisted for a long time.
Usually, there is no pain, but that side remains slightly swollen.
When I press both sides of the posterior area, the left side is always tender, and there is a noticeable lump.
When I asked two or three dentists during a teeth cleaning, they suggested that it might be due to my well-developed masticatory muscles, which made me doubt myself.
However, I did not have this issue before the extraction.
The left side of my face is swollen and painful due to the posterior muscle tissue, and while it does not affect my daily life, it becomes painful when pressed for an extended period, and my facial symmetry is off.
The problem has not been resolved.

v, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/26

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is recommended to visit the oral and maxillofacial surgery department or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) clinic at a medical center.
Inform the physician about this condition to determine if a CT scan of the head and neck is necessary or if a referral to neurology is needed to confirm that the musculoskeletal and neurological systems are functioning normally.

Reply Date: 2024/04/26

More Info

Chronic pain in the jaw muscles following wisdom tooth extraction can be a frustrating and concerning issue. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing persistent discomfort and swelling on the left side of your jaw, which may be related to the extraction procedure itself or the subsequent healing process. Here, I will discuss potential causes of your symptoms and suggest possible solutions.

Causes of Chronic Jaw Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
1. Muscle Strain: During the extraction of wisdom teeth, especially if they are impacted or require significant force to remove, the jaw muscles can be strained. Prolonged opening of the mouth during the procedure can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness, which may result in chronic pain if not allowed to heal properly.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and can be affected by dental procedures. If the joint is misaligned or if there is excessive strain on the muscles surrounding it, this can lead to pain, swelling, and even clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw.

3. Nerve Irritation: The extraction process can sometimes irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain that may radiate to other areas, including the ear or neck. This can cause a sensation of discomfort that persists long after the extraction site has healed.

4. Infection or Inflammation: Although less common, an infection at the extraction site can lead to chronic pain and swelling. If food particles become trapped in the socket or if the area does not heal properly, it can lead to inflammation and discomfort.

5. Bone Healing Issues: After a tooth extraction, the bone needs time to heal. If there are complications such as dry socket (when the blood clot fails to form or is dislodged), this can lead to prolonged pain and discomfort.

6. Muscle Hypertrophy: In some cases, individuals may develop hypertrophy (enlargement) of the chewing muscles due to compensatory mechanisms, especially if there is an imbalance in how the jaw is used post-extraction. This can lead to asymmetry and discomfort.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: If you haven't already, consider consulting an oral surgeon or a dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders. They can provide a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs) to assess the jaw joint and surrounding structures.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy focused on the jaw and neck can help alleviate muscle tension and improve mobility. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve flexibility.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Heat can relax tense muscles, while cold can numb the area and reduce swelling.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. If pain persists, your dentist may prescribe stronger medications or muscle relaxants.

5. Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the jaw can help improve function and reduce pain. Your dentist or physical therapist can provide guidance on appropriate exercises.

6. Avoiding Strain: Be mindful of activities that may exacerbate your symptoms, such as chewing hard foods or clenching your jaw. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, can also help reduce muscle tension.

7. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your dentist are crucial to monitor your healing process and address any ongoing issues. If you notice any changes or worsening of symptoms, seek immediate care.

In conclusion, while chronic jaw pain after wisdom tooth extraction can be distressing, understanding the potential causes and exploring various treatment options can lead to relief. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and concerns to develop an effective management plan tailored to your needs.

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