Jaw pain can be an indicator of a number of different dental problems. No matter what is causing the issue, you need to have it attended to — and fast. Calling your emergency dentist in Melbourne as soon as possible will help get you out of pain and on with your life! Keep reading to learn more about the different types of jaw pain and which treatment may be right for you.
Sudden Jaw Pain from a Tooth
If you notice significant discomfort in your jaw that seems to have come on all of a sudden, that is probably an indicator that you have a problem with a tooth — usually a molar or wisdom tooth. When a cavity is not treated promptly, the tooth decay will gradually eat away at the tooth enamel until it reaches the interior and causes a toothache. This type of pain requires rapid treatment, as an infection can quickly spread throughout the body and place your overall health at risk.
To treat an aching tooth, your dentist may recommend an emergency root canal. This procedure can be completed in just two visits to the office and, despite their reputation of being something painful, modern root canals are completely comfortable thanks to anesthesia and sedation.
A Clicking and Popping Jaw Signals TMJ
If you have noticed clicking and popping or if your jaw pain has been worsening over time, you may have an issue with your TMJ (temporomandibular joint). The TMJ is the joint that attaches your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull. When a problem develops here, the result may be a dull, constant ache or pain when you open and close your mouth.
TMJ should be treated promptly by a dentist offering this type of therapy. When ignored, this condition can result in wear and tear on the teeth and cause chronic head, neck, and ear pain as well. TMJ therapy in Melbourne will vary based on what is causing the issue and may include realigning the jaw joints or making small lifestyle changes that reduce discomfort naturally.
Facial Trauma Can Result in a Broken Jaw
Another type of jaw pain can be the result of facial trauma that has ended in a broken jaw. If this has happened to you or someone you love, head straight to the emergency room. A broken bone requires immediate medical attention. After you have had the initial problem treated, make an appointment with your dentist to attend to any dental problems.
To conclude, there are a number of issues that can result in jaw pain — and they all require treatment. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional right when something goes wrong. Your oral health depends on it!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Cedric C. Chenet is a highly-skilled and experienced dentist offering a wide variety of dental services to friends and neighbors in Melbourne. To learn more about his comprehensive general, restorative, or cosmetic treatments or to schedule an appointment, you are invited to contact the office at (321) 253-3136.