Experiencing Jaw Discomfort for Two Weeks
Hello, I am a 22-year-old female. I recently transitioned to a new dental practice where I had two fillings completed on the upper left side of my mouth. Approximately four days later, I returned for two more fillings on the lower right side. Following that treatment, I began to experience significant discomfort, particularly on the left side and primarily affecting the lower jaw muscles. I revisited the dentist about four days ago, and after examining my teeth, they concluded that my pain does not seem to stem from a dental issue. Interestingly, I don’t feel any discomfort when I first wake up, but the pain intensifies throughout the day. I’ve noticed that activities such as eating and talking exacerbate the discomfort. It manifests as a persistent dull ache, which has been quite distressing. Additionally, I have a history of a clicking sensation in my jaw whenever I yawn or open my mouth widely. While it seems that the pain may have slightly improved, the change is minimal. I’m seeking guidance—should I schedule an appointment with a doctor, or would it be better to wait and see if the pain subsides on its own? Could this be related to TMJ disorder? Any advice would be appreciated!
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 12:02:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with persistent jaw discomfort that has been affecting your daily activities. Given your recent dental work and the nature of your symptoms, it’s possible that this discomfort could be related to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issue, especially since you have a history of clicking in your jaw.
Explanation
TMJ disorders can cause pain in the jaw, particularly in the muscles or around the joints where your jaw connects to your skull. This discomfort may start after dental procedures, especially those involving extensive work on surrounding areas. Factors like stress, teeth grinding, and even posture can contribute to TMJ disorders, leading to muscle tension and pain, which you are experiencing.
Next Steps
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Self-Care Measures:
- Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to your jaw for 15-20 minutes, two to three times a day. This can help relax the muscles and reduce pain.
- Gentle Stretching: Perform gentle jaw stretches. Open your mouth wide and then close it, and try moving your jaw side to side gently.
- Eat Soft Foods: Focus on a soft diet to minimize strain on your jaw while it heals.
- Stress Management: If you suspect you might be clenching your jaw due to stress or anxiety, consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of your pain levels and any changes in your symptoms over the next few days. Note any activities that worsen or alleviate the discomfort.
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Evaluate if Medical Consultation is Necessary:
- If your symptoms do not improve significantly within a week or worsen (such as increased pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth), it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider who can assess your jaw further.
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Address Possible Teeth Grinding:
- If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth at night (especially since you don’t feel pain upon waking), a mouth guard could be a helpful preventative measure to discuss with a dentist.
Taking these steps can help manage your discomfort and provide insight into your condition. If you continue to have concerns or if the pain increases, seeking further medical advice is definitely justified. Let me know if you have additional questions or need more specific guidance!
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