Pain in your mouth, jaw or face can result from a variety of factors. Some issues are cause for alarm and should receive immediate medical attention. Others are not, but should still be evaluated and treated by a doctor or dentist as soon as possible. It is often difficult to determine the underlying cause of your pain without a medical or dental exam. The cause of your pain could arise from:
- A toothache that has radiated into the nerves of your face. This may be a sign of an abscess or other infection.
- Trauma to face, or jaw bones and muscles.
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth.
- Sinus infections or blockage that can cause pain in the upper mouth.
- Salivary gland blockages or other disorders.
- Ear infections.
- Stress, fatigue, or a lack of proper sleep (including sleep apnea).
- Conditions or diseases such as tetanus, mumps, lupus, or fibromyalgia.
- Cluster headaches. The pain is typically behind the eyes, but can radiate down through the jaw.
- Trigeminal neuralgia, a condition causing severe pain in a nerve that provides sensation to a large portion of the face and jaws.
A symptom related to angina or a heart attack. Jaw pain, most commonly in the left, lower jaw, is a noteworthy heart attack symptom, particularly in women.
Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis, which often begins in the mouth. This can be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Symptoms include red, warm, and tender areas on your face, usually without a fever.
What to do
Author: Symbyos staff, Fluent staff
Last updated: 5/27/2021 • Medical review: Thomas J. Greany DDS, 2/7/2021
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