Is Your Facial Pain Linked to Your Teeth? 4 Possible Causes

If you are dealing with facial pain, it can be a bit frustrating. You may feel it when you talk and eat, but is it necessarily an oral health issue? There are some dental problems that have it as a symptom, so it’s important to visit your emergency dentist right away. Continue reading to learn four possible causes of it and why getting treatment can help give you back a happy smile.

1.)  Teeth Grinding or Clenching

This habit is known as bruxism, and it can be the cause of your facial discomfort. It happens subconsciously during the night or when you are feeling stressed. Over time, it can strain the muscles in your jaw, causing them to become sore. If you clench or grind your teeth, then you may also have trouble eating or experience increased tooth wear or cracked teeth.

While this condition isn’t necessarily a dental emergency, it’s important to talk to your dentist right away. Getting fitted with a nightguard can help protect your teeth as you sleep and reduce the pain you feel.

2.)  Dental Abscess

This condition is caused by an infected tooth. It is a pimple-like bump on your gums, which can cause some discomfort. It often radiates to your jawbone, neck, and even your ear. If this is the case for your facial pain, then this is a dental emergency! Oral health problems like these cannot go away on their own. That means they will continue to worsen when they aren’t taken care of.

3.)  Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder

Your jaw joints may sometimes become strained because of a myriad of different reasons. Bruxism, misalignment, and injury are just some causes, but they can cause pain in your face and popping or clicking noises when you open or close your mouth. Your dentist will be able to pinpoint the root problem and give you the treatment you need for long-term relief.

4.)  Dry Socket

A more situational explanation for your facial pain can stem from you having a tooth removed. A blood clot forms over the now-empty socket to protect the nerves and keep the area clean. If it becomes dislodged or dissolved too early, then it can cause severe discomfort. It’s important to call your dentist right away to ensure you heal properly after the procedure.

While your facial pain may not be what you had in store for the day, you deserve to get the care you need. Talking to your dentist can help ensure it’s not an oral health issue or fix it up to get you back to a worry-free grin.

About the Practice

At Marble Dental McKinney, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Zack Hegazin and Dr. Muna Koro. We are here to help the community get the relief they need from their dental emergencies. Through evening and Saturday hours, we may be able to see you the same day and treat you using state-of-the-art technology. If you suspect your facial pain is being caused by an oral health issue, schedule an appointment or call our office at (214) 592-0441.