If you've ever had a toothache that won’t go away or jaw pain that seems to come and go, you may have wondered: Is this a dental problem or something else?
Many people confuse TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain with dental pain because they share similar symptoms—like aching teeth, jaw discomfort, or even ear pain. However, knowing the difference can save you time, unnecessary dental procedures, and ongoing discomfort.
So, how can you tell if your pain is coming from your teeth or originating from your jaw joint and muscles? Let’s break it down.
🦷 Signs of Dental Pain (Tooth-Related Issues)
If your pain is sharp, localised, and triggered by specific factors, it’s more likely related to your teeth. Here are some common signs:
✅ Sharp, localised pain – Often linked to a specific tooth.
✅ Triggered by temperature or sweets – Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods could indicate a cavity or nerve issue.
✅ Pain worsens when biting down – This may suggest a cracked tooth, an infection, or an issue with the tooth’s nerve.
✅ Swelling or abscess – Infections in the tooth or gums can cause noticeable swelling and often require urgent dental care.
✅ X-ray detection – Cavities, root infections, and fractures can often be seen on dental X-rays.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing a dentist should be your first step.
😬 Signs of TMJ Pain (Jaw and Muscle-Related Issues)
If your pain feels more widespread, fluctuates throughout the day, or involves muscle tension, it’s likely TMJ-related. Look out for:
✅ Widespread pain – TMJ issues can cause pain that radiates to multiple teeth, ears, temples, or even behind the eyes.
✅ Clicking, popping, or jaw locking – These are telltale signs of TMJ dysfunction.
✅ Pain changes throughout the day – It may be worse in the morning (from nighttime clenching) or after excessive talking, chewing, or stress.
✅ Tension headaches and ear pressure – Many TMJ sufferers mistake their symptoms for sinus or ear infections.
✅ Muscle tenderness – If pressing on your jaw muscles increases or relieves the pain, it’s likely coming from the TMJ.
✅ No clear issues on X-rays – Unlike dental pain, TMJ dysfunction won’t show up on a standard dental X-ray.
If these symptoms sound familiar, a dental physiotherapist—like us—can help.
What If You Have Both?
In some cases, dental pain and TMJ pain overlap. For example:
🔹 A tight jaw muscle can refer pain to your teeth, making it feel like a toothache.
🔹 A dental infection can cause swelling that affects your jaw movement.
🔹 A sinus infection can create pressure that mimics TMJ pain.
If you’re unsure, try these simple tests:
✅ Check for triggers – If pain worsens with chewing, yawning, or stress, it’s likely TMJ-related. If it’s triggered by temperature changes or sugar, it’s more likely dental.
✅ Assess jaw movement – Gently massage your jaw muscles. If this eases the pain, TMJ dysfunction is a likely culprit.
✅ Consult the right professional – A dentist can rule out cavities and infections, while a TMJ specialist (like us!) can assess your jaw function and provide targeted treatment.
How We Can Help
If you suspect TMJ pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. At Dental Physiotherapy with Lorraine Carroll & Simon Coghlan, we take a hands-on approach to TMJ treatment using:
✔️ Manual therapy to ease muscle tension
✔️ Dry needling & medical acupuncture for pain relief
✔️ Laser therapy to promote healing
✔️ Personalised care from experienced professionals
Don’t let jaw pain control your life.
Book an appointment today and start feeling better!
📍 Location: Suite 2, 24-26 Gloucester Road, Buderim, 4556📞 Call us: 07 3532 8605🌐 Book online: Click here
By Lorraine
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