There are individuals that suffer severely from jaw pain. Common problems that cause jaw pain are Temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ, clenching and/or grinding of the teeth (Bruxism) and stress. Jaw conditions of this nature are usually quite painful. However, they can be treated with anti-inflammatory medication, mouth devices and jaw exercises. Another common condition that is often confused with TMJ or problems with teeth is an old-fashioned ear infection.

There are a number of conditions that lead to TMJ such as jaw clenching and teeth grinding. While an individual can clench their jaws and grind their teeth, it does not mean that it will lead to TMJ. Though both conditions are leading contributors. There are several devices that will help minimize the amount of grinding and clenching that is done.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are also contributing factors of TMJ and pain in the jaw. Arthritis can cause inflammation in the joints of both children and adults. Both osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis damage the cartilage and erode the bone and create deformities in the joints. With the destruction of cartilage, the jaw joint operates in a bone on bone mechanism creating severe pain.

Stress is also a major factor in clenching and in turn a contributing factor in the jaw pain cycle. Many people find themselves clenching during the day when their stress levels are elevated. Stress relieving techniques and/or clenching devices can be used to assist in the stress relief. Occassionally when an individual is aware of their clenching, they are able to conscoiusly slow down or even train themselves not to clench.

Dental companies have developed products designed for night teeth grinding and clenching. They are similar to what you would see football players wearing. They are inexpensive and easy to use. If the grinding condition is severe one of these devices will last approximately six months before needing to be replaced. Alternately, you dentist can also have one made for you.

Finally, an ear infection can cause jaw pain. An ear infection is an easy to treat condition and, is also a painful condition especially for young children. Moist heat, ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and antibiotics are normally the treatment for an ear infection and jaw pain.

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