Jaw Pain on One Side: Possible Causes

Jaw pain on one side may be related to the joint and the chewing muscles. The lower jaw connects to the skull via two temporomandibular joints, and disorders in them affect jaw movement. This article explains how a doctor looks for the cause of such pain and when to seek help.

Why the jaw hurts on one side

The jaw is not a single bone with teeth but a system: the lower jaw, two temporomandibular joints on the sides, the chewing muscles, and the teeth. Both joints work simultaneously as a single articulation, so a problem on one side is felt precisely there. Jaw pain may be related to the joint and the chewing muscles that control jaw movement.

Lower jaw pain: the dentist's role

If the lower jaw hurts, a doctor or dentist takes a history, examines the head, neck, face, and jaw, and may order an X-ray, MRI, or CT. The dentist also helps if the cause may be teeth grinding or an uneven bite.

Pain when chewing and opening the mouth: joint problems

When the jaw hurts on the left or right when chewing and opening the mouth, this is often a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). This condition affects jaw movement; it is usually not dangerous and resolves on its own over time, but in some cases it can become chronic. Symptoms: pain around the jaw, ear, and temple, clicking or crepitus when moving the jaw, headache in the temples, difficulty opening the mouth fully, the jaw "locking." The pain worsens when chewing and with stress. Causes include teeth grinding, joint wear, a blow to the head or face, stress, and an uneven bite. Such disorders are more common in women, especially at ages 35–44.

The jaw hurts on the left or right: when the cause is not the jaw

In TMD, pain may spread to the face and neck, and there may be tinnitus, hearing loss, or dizziness. The way the upper and lower teeth come together also changes.

How a doctor determines the cause of pain

There is no standard test for TMD, and other conditions produce similar symptoms—so diagnosis can be challenging. A doctor or dentist asks in detail: where it hurts, when, what worsens and relieves the pain, whether it radiates to other areas, and whether there are other painful conditions. Then they examine the head, neck, face, and jaw: checking for tenderness, clicking, and jaw movement. Imaging may be ordered—X-ray, MRI, or CT; MRI of the joint is the most informative.

• pain around the jaw, ear, or temple
• clicking, popping, or crepitus when moving the jaw
• difficulty opening the mouth fully or locking of the jaw
• pain that radiates to the face or neck

When to see a doctor urgently

See a doctor as soon as possible if you cannot eat or drink, have vision problems, severe headache or tenderness on the side of the head, or your jaw has locked.

TMD by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — for chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.

This material is for reference: it helps you understand where to look, but does not replace a doctor's consultation—only a specialist at an appointment can determine the exact cause of your pain.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer