Jaw Pain

Symptoms of Jaw Pain

Jaw pain often comes from the temporomandibular joint, located just in front of the ear. Pain may stay local or radiate into the face, ear, neck, or head. Some people also experience symptoms that feel similar to sinus pressure or tension headaches.

Common symptoms include:

A clicking or locking jaw while chewing food or opening the mouth widely (for example when ‘yawning’)
Sinus pain
Tooth pain
Neck pain
The restriction when opening the mouth
Headache
Clenching or grinding the teeth

Causes of Jaw Pain

Jaw pain has several possible contributors. One common factor is malocclusion, where the teeth do not meet evenly. This can place excess strain on the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles.

Other causes include:

– Neck and shoulder tension
– Habitual clenching
– Grinding during sleep
– Stress or anxiety influencing jaw tension

Dental procedures may also irritate the joint, especially long or forceful treatments, extractions, and other surgical work.

It is important to assess jaw pain carefully, because similar symptoms can arise from dental infections or, in rare cases, refer during a cardiac event.

Treatment & Management of Jaw Pain

Osteopathy can assist with jaw pain. Treatment typically focuses on easing tension in the joints, muscles, and soft tissues that influence jaw mechanics. Care is often coordinated with dentists, orthodontists, orofacial myologists, speech pathologists, or other specialists when needed.

You may also be advised to:

– Consult a dentist, GP, or relevant specialist for further assessment
– Obtain imaging to clarify the source of symptoms
– Avoid foods that require strong or prolonged chewing
– Avoid self-directed jaw manipulation or forceful stretching

Why is Head Above Healthcare the best choice in Brisbane for your Jaw Pain?

Our practitioners take a detailed and personalised approach to jaw pain. We look beyond the immediate symptoms to understand the structural, muscular, postural, and behavioural factors contributing to your discomfort. This helps us build a treatment plan that is practical, supportive, and relevant to your day-to-day life.

People choose Head Above Healthcare because they value the consistency, clarity, and results we deliver. Our aim is to help you feel more comfortable, move more easily, and understand how to keep improving over time.