Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Jaw and Tooth Pain

Jaw and tooth pain can be extremely uncomfortable. Whether it’s a dull throb in your jaw, a sharp ache in your tooth, or a combination of both, this kind of pain can interfere with eating, speaking, sleeping and even thinking clearly. While the causes vary, the discomfort often feels the same—persistent, nagging and hard to ignore.

Understanding what may be causing your symptoms and knowing how to relieve the pain safely and effectively can make all the difference. In many cases, simple home remedies and self-care strategies can help ease discomfort until further treatment is available. In others, professional care is required to resolve the underlying problem.

What Causes Jaw and Tooth Pain?

There are many possible reasons for experiencing pain in both the jaw and teeth. One of the most common is dental decay or infection, which occurs when bacteria reach the nerve inside the tooth, leading to inflammation and sharp or throbbing pain. This discomfort may spread to the jaw, particularly if the infection has progressed.

Tooth abscesses, which are infections at the root of the tooth or in the gum, can cause severe pain that radiates into the jaw and even the ear. You may also notice swelling, a bad taste in the mouth or sensitivity to heat and cold.

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, often during sleep, can also lead to jaw and tooth pain. This habit places excessive pressure on the teeth and tightens the jaw muscles, causing soreness or stiffness in the morning.

Another cause is temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD or TMJ dysfunction). This affects the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull and can result in pain around the jaw, teeth, ear and temples. Clicking, locking or difficulty opening the mouth may also be present.

Gum disease, sinus infections, impacted wisdom teeth or even referred pain from the neck or nerves can also lead to symptoms that feel like jaw or tooth pain.

What Does It Feel Like?

Jaw and tooth pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain that affects your entire face. You might feel a deep ache, sharp stabbing pain, or a constant dull sensation. The pain may come and go or remain constant. It can worsen when chewing, speaking or touching the affected area, and may be accompanied by swelling, redness or sensitivity to temperature.

In some cases, the pain may be worse at night or while lying down, as blood flow increases to the head, heightening the sensation of pain.

How to Relieve Jaw and Tooth Pain at Home

If the pain is mild or you are waiting for a dental appointment, there are several safe and effective ways to ease jaw and tooth pain at home.

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can help numb the area and reduce inflammation, particularly if swelling is present. A warm compress may also be helpful if the pain is due to muscle tension or joint discomfort.

Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation. Ibuprofen is particularly effective for pain involving swelling or infection, but it should be taken with food and only as directed. If you are unsure, speak to a pharmacist for advice.

For tooth pain, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can soothe irritated gums and help reduce bacterial build-up. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish gently for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be repeated several times a day.

If the pain is linked to teeth grinding or jaw tension, practising jaw relaxation exercises can be beneficial. Try keeping your lips together but teeth slightly apart, and place the tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth to help relax the jaw. Avoid chewing gum, eating very hard foods or opening your mouth wide until the pain eases.

Good oral hygiene is essential. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid extreme temperatures if the teeth feel sensitive.

When to See a Dentist or GP

You should see a dentist as soon as possible if your pain is severe, lasts more than a day or two, or is accompanied by swelling, a fever, bad breath or discharge from the gums. These may be signs of an infection that requires treatment.

If the cause is not dental, or if your dentist cannot find a clear source of the pain, you may be referred to a GP, oral surgeon or specialist to explore other potential causes such as TMJ dysfunction, nerve pain or referred pain from the sinuses or neck.

Prompt treatment is especially important if you have a weakened immune system, diabetes or are pregnant, as infections may progress more quickly.

Preventing Future Jaw and Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can often be prevented through regular dental check-ups, good brushing and flossing habits, and limiting sugary or acidic foods and drinks. Wearing a mouthguard at night can help prevent damage from grinding and relieve pressure on the jaw.

Managing stress and posture can also help reduce tension in the jaw. Avoiding habits like chewing on pens or biting nails can prevent strain on the teeth and jaw muscles.

If you are prone to sinus infections, keeping allergies and colds under control may reduce the risk of referred facial pain. Staying hydrated and maintaining general wellbeing also supports oral and jaw health.

Emotional Impact and Quality of Life

Persistent jaw and tooth pain can interfere with sleep, concentration and confidence. Pain while speaking or eating may lead to isolation or frustration, and it's entirely natural to feel worn down by ongoing discomfort.

Speak openly with your dentist or doctor about how the pain is affecting your daily life. Support is available, and you do not need to manage alone. Addressing the root cause of the problem, alongside good pain management, can restore your comfort and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Jaw and tooth pain can be distressing, but most causes are treatable. Whether the discomfort is linked to dental decay, infection, grinding or joint issues, there are effective ways to find relief and prevent recurrence.

If your pain does not settle with home care, seek professional advice to avoid further complications. With the right treatment and self-care, you can regain control and return to a more comfortable, pain-free life.