Jaw pain is a common issue that affects millions of people across the U.S., showing up as stiffness, throbbing aches, or even sharp pain when speaking or chewing.…
Jaw pain is a common issue that affects millions of people across the U.S., showing up as stiffness, throbbing aches, or even sharp pain when speaking or chewing. For some, it’s a temporary inconvenience; for others, it’s a daily struggle that disrupts eating, sleeping, and quality of life. Because jaw pain can stem from multiple causes—including tooth grinding, gum disease, arthritis, or even trauma—understanding the root issue is key. If left untreated, symptoms often worsen over time and can radiate into headaches, neck pain, or even chest discomfort. That’s why timely evaluation is essential.
At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, Dr. Nicholas Pigneri and his experienced team are dedicated to helping patients uncover the true source of their discomfort. “Trouble in the jaw can result in pain across the entire upper body. In many cases, patients are unaware that back pain, headaches, earaches, and more are caused by damage to the TMJ,” explains Dr. Pigneri.
Understanding Jaw Pain
Jaw pain may be mild and self-limiting, or it may be severe enough to signal something serious. The most common cause is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)—a condition that impacts the small but powerful joints connecting your jawbone to your skull. Other causes include:
- Abscessed teeth or gum disease leading to infection-related pain.
- Arthritis, which inflames and breaks down joint tissues.
- Infections such as sinusitis, mumps, or tetanus.
- Bruxism (tooth grinding), especially at night.
- Trauma, like a fractured or dislocated jaw.
In very rare cases, pain radiating to the jaw may even be a symptom of a heart attack. Persistent pain lasting more than a week, worsening symptoms, or discomfort spreading from chest to jaw should always be taken seriously.
How We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorders
Our process is designed to uncover the source of your jaw pain and deliver lasting relief:
- Comprehensive TMJ Examination – Using advanced diagnostics, we determine whether bite alignment, joint inflammation, or other issues are at play.
- Custom Orthotic Devices – Patients are fitted with devices that gently adjust the bite and begin alleviating symptoms.
- TMJ Rehabilitation – Depending on the case, long-term relief may come from orthotics, braces, Invisalign, or porcelain restorations that stabilize and improve bite function.
In many cases, conservative measures—like custom night guards, stretching exercises, and stress management—provide relief. For more advanced or persistent conditions, our prosthodontic and orthodontic expertise allows us to offer restorative solutions tailored to each patient.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Jaw pain is common, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, Dr. Pigneri and our skilled team combine years of training with cutting-edge treatment strategies to restore comfort and protect long-term oral health. If you’re ready to stop living with daily discomfort, schedule your TMJ examination today.
Call us at (713) 255-1029
Email Concierge@HoustonDentistsAtPostOak.com
📍 Visit us at 1330 Post Oak Blvd #1300, Houston, TX 77056
