Jaw pain in children may lead to discomfort as it may interfere with eating and speaking. Many reasons may lead to jaw pain, but problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are the most common causes. Diagnosing the underlying cause can help in deciding an accurate treatment plan. Keep reading this post to know about the possible causes, signs, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of jaw pain in children to help them.
Possible Causes Of Jaw Pain In Children
The common reasons for jaw pain in children include injuries and medical conditions. Jaw pain could also be accompanied by other symptoms, based on which the treatment is suggested.
Signs And Symptoms Of Jaw Pain In Children
Children, especially the older ones, can complain to a parent about jaw pain. However, if the pain is sporadic, it may be less noticeable to the child. In such situations, the following symptoms may indicate that the child has jaw pain (1).
Difficulty in opening and closing mouth Headaches and ear pain Trouble in biting and chewing Clicking, grating, and popping sound from the jaw Pain near the ear and in facial muscles when yawning or chewing or talking Swelling, pain, and fatigue of the jaw
When To See A Doctor?
The symptoms of jaw pain could also be associated with other problems. If you are not sure if it is a jaw problem, then consult a doctor or dentist for further diagnosis.
Diagnosis Of Jaw Pain
Based on the signs and symptoms, the doctor may follow a series of diagnostic measures (12).
A physical examination of the jaw, mouth, and neck bones. The doctor or dentist may want to know the history of the pain and other prevailing medical conditions. X-ray, MRI, or other radiology procedures may be considered if other steps yield no results.
The underlying cause of jaw pain will determine the treatment procedure.
Treatments For Jaw Pain In Children
The treatment of jaw pain could vary depending on the severity of the condition. The following are the treatment options available for jaw pain in children.
Ways To Prevent Jaw Pain In Children
Jaw pain cannot be entirely prevented. However, some measures may be taken to avoid complications and prevent the pain from getting worse (1).
Seek expert or professional advice at the earliest. Avoid eating chewy and hard foods as it could strain the jaw muscles Soft foods may be eaten, and smaller bites help Keep the jaw at rest as much as possible You may take your child to the dentist in the case of clenching or grinding teeth Regularly massage cheeks, temples, and jaw Regular movements and stretching may relax the joints
What Happens If TMJ Dysfunction Is Not Treated?
Jaw pain due to TMJ disorders is not a dangerous problem, but if the condition is not treated, a child’s quality of life may be affected. Untreated jaw pain may lead to the following problems (16) (17).
Inflammation and joint damage Inner ear and dental issues Locked jaw Eating disorders Headaches Pain in shoulder, back, and neck
