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Jaw/ facial pain

What is Jaw pain?

Myofascial pain, also known as Temporo-Mandibular Jaw (TMJ) pain, is similar to dull toothache or wisdom tooth pain but is essentially muscular.

It is sometimes difficult to locate, and there may be pain in the jaw joint and all the surrounding structures. In acute cases, jaw opening may be limited.

How common is this type of pain?

One in four people at some time may have symptoms. Men and women are affected equally, although women tend to seek treatment more often.


What are its causes?

The most common cause is tooth clenching or grinding, often associated with stress and anxiety. Normally a person is not aware of clenching their teeth. It’s usually something they do when concentrating.

People who grind their teeth might do so during the day or at night. Night grinding while sleeping is more destructive and difficult to deal with.

What causes the pain?

Increased muscle activity in the jaw causes the muscles to get tired and go into spasm, a cramp-like condition.


Our Advice

You can tell if you’re clenching your teeth if your top and bottom teeth are touching. Teeth are normally apart, except when we’re chewing and swallowing. You can ease the pain by:

  • Eating evenly on both sides
  • Avoiding hard chewing – try soft foods in severe cases
  • Avoiding biting/chewing objects such as pens/pencils and biting your nails
  • Trying not to yawn with your mouth wide open
  • Holding a warm water bottle on the aching side

If you have lost a few back teeth, you might need them replaced to balance and support your bite properly. In severe or chronic cases your dentist can construct an appliance for you to wear on your teeth.

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Please get in touch with our friendly team on 01626 212121

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Because we are a family run practice with patient care at the heart of everything we do.

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What Our Patients Say About Us


  • I have nothing but praise for the El Nashar Dental practice. The whole team are very professional and friendly. Jo has done a fair amount of work over the years for me, and everything has been to an excellent standard. She takes a long term approach to my dental needs and I have full confidence in her work. As an anxious patient, Jo and her assistant, Mary are both also really caring and empathetic which is really important to me as I find any dental procedures quite stressful! Thank you.

    Philippa Oldrieve - See Google Reviews

  • El Nashar Dental Care offers exceptional service from start to finish! The team is incredibly welcoming, and the professionalism of the staff truly sets them apart. The staff are highly skilled, attentive, and take the time to explain every step of the treatment, making you feel at ease. The clinic is modern, spotless, and equipped with the latest technology, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience. I couldn’t be happier with the results and would highly recommend El Nashar Dental Care to anyone looking for top-notch dental care. They genuinely care about their patients and go above and beyond to provide outstanding service!

    Chris Moore - See Google Reviews

  • I cannot speak highly enough of this wonderful dental practice. The staff are efficient, reassuring and highly skilled and the treatment I have received over many years has always been exemplary. Recently I had to have more complicated treatment which evolved a tricky extraction. Whilst I have never been nervous about dental procedures I was a bit anxious about this. I was signposted to the sedation process, which was absolutely wonderful. For any nervous patient they can be guaranteed a relaxed treatment with absolutely no discomfort or anxiety. I feel so fortunate to have been treated by these marvellous professionals who have also helped to ensure that I still have my own teeth at the age of 76! Many many thanks to you all

    liz deane - See Google Reviews


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