Waking up with jaw pain on one side can be confusing and uncomfortable. You might wonder if it’s caused by a dental issue, muscle strain, or something more serious. While occasional discomfort isn’t uncommon, persistent pain on one side of the jaw can signal an underlying problem that deserves attention. Let’s explore the most common reasons your jaw might hurt on one side and what you can do about it.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull and acts like a hinge, helping you chew, talk, and yawn. If the joint becomes strained, inflamed, or misaligned, you may experience pain on one side of the jaw, along with:
- Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth.
- Headaches or ear pain.
- Jaw stiffness or limited movement.
TMJ disorders can result from teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, or even an uneven bite. Applying warm compresses, eating soft foods, and avoiding excessive chewing can provide relief. However, if the pain persists, a dentist or TMJ specialist can assess the issue and recommend treatments such as a nightguard, physical therapy, or bite correction.
Dental Problems
Sometimes, the source of one-sided jaw pain isn’t the joint but your teeth or gums. Common dental causes include:
- Cavities or abscesses in a tooth on one side of the mouth.
- Gum infections that cause inflammation and soreness.
- Impacted wisdom teeth putting pressure on one side of the jaw.
Because dental pain can radiate into the jaw or ear, it may feel like the discomfort is coming from the joint rather than the tooth itself. If your jaw pain is accompanied by swelling, sensitivity, or throbbing, schedule a dental exam as soon as possible to rule out infection or decay.
Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Many people grind or clench their teeth — especially at night — without realizing it. Over time, this constant pressure can strain the jaw muscles and cause soreness that’s often worse on one side.
Symptoms of bruxism include:
- Worn or chipped teeth.
- Morning headaches.
- Jaw tightness or pain after waking up.
A custom nightguard can protect your teeth and relieve muscle tension, while stress management techniques can help reduce clenching during the day.
Injury or Overuse
Even small habits like chewing gum excessively or biting your nails can cause strain and inflammation in the jaw muscles. Trauma from a fall, accident, or even dental work can also lead to pain on one side.
Resting your jaw, eating soft foods, and avoiding wide mouth movements (like yawning too hard) can help ease the discomfort while your jaw heals.
When to See a Professional
If your jaw pain lasts more than a few days, worsens with movement, or is accompanied by swelling, locking, or fever, it’s best to seek dental or medical care. Early evaluation helps identify the cause and prevent more serious issues from developing.
One-sided jaw pain can stem from many sources — from TMJ disorders to dental infections or muscle strain. Paying attention to your symptoms and getting a professional evaluation can help you find lasting relief and restore comfort to your jaw.
About the Author
Dr. Sienna Palmer earned her dental doctorate at the Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California. She has continued her education even after ending formally, earning Invisalign certification, expertise in CAD/CAM technology, and a membership in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Palmer also stays current through memberships in the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t delay – schedule an appointment online or call our Mission Viejo office at (949) 365-0951.