Lower Jaw Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies

Left mandibular pain?

Dear Doctor,
I have recently been experiencing sudden pain in the gums below my lower left wisdom tooth.
It feels as if something is pulling on my gums, preventing me from opening my mouth.
There are white indentations in the area next to the wisdom tooth, and it feels like I have an ulcer, but upon looking in the mirror, I don't see any visible wounds.
However, there is a lot of clear mucus being secreted, and I also experience throat pain when swallowing saliva.
This discomfort has improved somewhat after taking vitamin C.
The gums below my lower left wisdom tooth are very painful, but when I touch them, there is no swelling.
However, this pain restricts my mouth opening, making it difficult to eat; I can only force a spoon in.
Brushing my teeth is also challenging, as I can only force the toothbrush in.
Could this be related to my protruding jaw issue? I have also noticed that I unconsciously clench my teeth; could this be contributing to my condition?
If I need to wear a bite guard, how much would it cost? I am currently unable to see a doctor immediately.
What can I do at home to alleviate my pain?

Shannon, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/06/27

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Dear Shannon,
The reason for your inability to open your mouth is related to the inflammation of your wisdom teeth.
Pericoronitis around the crown of the wisdom tooth can affect the muscles involved in mouth opening, and it may also be associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or muscle spasms.
The causes are complex, and your teeth grinding could also be a contributing factor.
Initially, medication or applying heat near the joint can help alleviate the symptoms.
A dental splint can be made using the National Health Insurance coverage.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chih-Cheng Huang
Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2012/06/27

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the pain in your lower jaw, particularly around the area of your wisdom tooth. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several potential causes, including dental issues, muscle tension, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.

Causes of Lower Jaw Pain
1. Wisdom Tooth Eruption: The pain you are feeling could be due to your wisdom tooth (third molar) coming in. This can cause inflammation of the gums (pericoronitis) and may lead to discomfort, especially if there is not enough space for the tooth to emerge properly.

2. Dental Abscess: If there is an infection around the tooth, it could lead to swelling and pain. This might explain the white spots you see, which could be pus or other signs of infection.

3. TMJ Disorders: If you are clenching your teeth or grinding them (bruxism), this can lead to muscle tension and pain in the jaw area. The fact that you mentioned difficulty opening your mouth and the sensation of tightness could indicate TMJ dysfunction.

4. Oral Mucosal Conditions: The presence of white patches and increased mucus production could suggest a mucosal condition, such as oral thrush or another type of infection.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain Level: Keep track of how severe the pain is and if it changes with certain activities (like chewing or opening your mouth).

- Swelling: Although you mentioned no noticeable swelling, any changes in the area should be noted.

- Discharge: The presence of any pus or unusual discharge can indicate an infection that may require treatment.

Home Remedies
While it is essential to see a dentist for a definitive diagnosis and treatment, here are some home remedies you can try to alleviate your symptoms:
1. Warm Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse several times a day.

2. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your jaw can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use it for 15-20 minutes at a time.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.

4. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods that do not require much chewing to avoid aggravating the pain.

5. Jaw Relaxation Techniques: If you suspect that clenching your teeth is contributing to your pain, try to consciously relax your jaw throughout the day. Gentle stretching exercises for your jaw may also help.

When to Seek Professional Help
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. They can provide a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the exact cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment. If you need a bite guard (occlusal splint) due to bruxism, the cost can vary widely depending on your location and the dental office, but it typically ranges from $300 to $800.

In conclusion, while home remedies can provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Please prioritize seeing a dentist when you are able, as they can address any underlying issues and help prevent further complications.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!
Best regards.

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