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Help for a Sore Jaw

If you have chronic pain in your jaw, you may have a problem with your temporomandibular joint. This is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull.1

In most cases, simple treatment at home can help relieve jaw pain and stiffness.1 Here are some strategies to try:

  • Rest the jaw, and avoid movements like yawning or singing.1

  • Try over-the-counter ibuprofen or another pain medicine.1

  • Learn ways to relax and control stress that work for you.1

  • Eat soft foods until your jaw feels better.1

  • Don’t chew gum.1

  • Try applying a soothing ice pack to your sore jaw.1

  • Check your posture. Slouching can cause the lower jaw to shift forward. This can put stress on the jaw muscles and joints.2

If these simple self-care strategies don’t work, your dental professional can recommend other treatments that may help your jaw feel better.1

1 “TMJ Disorders.” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, July 25, 2008. http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/TMJ/TMJDisorders.htm Accessed 2008.

2 “Headaches and Jaw Pain? Change Your Posture!” Academy of General Dentistry, March 2007. http://www.agd.org/support/articles/?ArtID=1347. Accessed 2008.

Online Medical Reviewer: Gaskin, Kelly, RN, MSN, CPNP
Date Last Reviewed: 12/8/2008
Date Last Modified: 10/12/2008
The views represented by this article are that of the author and not of Delta Dental. This article is provided for information only. Please consult with a licensed dentist to discuss the best way for you to improve or maintain your oral health.

In all cases, specific group contract provisions, benefits, limitations and exclusions take precedence over oral health recommendations given here. We recommend that you contact your dental benefits carrier to determine the specific limitations and exclusions for your group.