Why does my jaw hurt when I open my mouth wide?
Quick Answer
Pain upon opening the mouth can be a symptom of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, according to WebMD. This common condition is also called TMJ, though that acronym more accurately refers to the jaw joint itself.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull, according to WebMD. It is a hinge joint that allows the jaw to move up and down as well as side to side. Problems with the joint and the facial muscles that control it are thought to cause discomfort and other associated symptoms.
Other symptoms of TMD include head, neck, facial and ear pain; headaches; a jaw that pops, grinds or clicks when opening the mouth or chewing; swelling on the affected side; and a jaw that locks into position or is difficult to open, says eMedicineHealth.
Trauma, such as a blow to the jaw or injury due to a car accident, as well as damage that occurs due to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, are common causes of TMD, notes eMedicineHealth. So are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment of TMD includes the use of ice, heat and gentle massage to relax the muscles around the joint; eating soft foods; and utilizing over-the-counter NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation, states the Cleveland Clinic. Muscle relaxers and anti-anxiety medications may be suggested. A mouth guard or splint may also be prescribed. Ultrasound, radio and TENS therapy can also help. Surgery is a last resort.
Learn more about MusclesRelated Questions
-
Q:
How many muscles does it take to speak?
A: To create speech, around a hundred different muscles in the chest, neck, jaw, tongue, and lips must work together. Every word or short phrase that is physi... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the main function of the trachea?
A: The main function of the trachea is to deliver air from the mouth to the lungs during respiration. This part of the human body is also known as the windpip... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is a duchenne smile?
A: A Duchenne smile is a smiling facial expression resulting from true happiness, characterized by engaging the muscles around a person's mouth and eyes. The ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How bad is achilles tendon surgery?
A: The recovery time for Achilles tendon surgery is six months, according to WebMD. Expect to wear a cast for the first six to 12 weeks of recovering from sur... Full Answer >Filed Under:
