Jaw pain, clicking and stiffness are common, and they can make eating, talking and sleeping uncomfortable. The cause is often the jaw joint or the muscles around it, but tooth problems can feel similar. Here is what can cause jaw pain and when to get it checked.
Key points
- Jaw pain is often linked to the jaw joint (TMJ), jaw muscles, teeth grinding or a dental problem.
- Many cases settle with simple self-care such as soft food, warmth and resting the jaw.
- Grinding or clenching at night can be helped by a custom-made splint.
- See a dentist or GP if pain persists, your jaw locks, or you have other symptoms.
Common causes of jaw pain
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affecting the jaw joint (TMJ) or chewing muscles.
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), often during sleep or stress.
- Dental problems such as an infected tooth, a cracked tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth.
- Gum infection or swelling at the back of the mouth.
- Injury to the face or jaw.
Signs of a jaw joint or muscle problem
- Aching around the ear, temple or jaw, often worse in the morning or after chewing.
- Clicking, popping or grating when opening the mouth.
- A jaw that feels stiff, locks or will not open fully.
- Headaches, sore teeth or worn, flattened teeth from grinding.
Self-care that often helps
- Eat softer foods for a while and cut food into small pieces.
- Avoid chewing gum, biting nails and very wide yawning.
- Apply warmth to the jaw muscles for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Rest your jaw with teeth apart and lips together.
- Over-the-counter pain relief, taken as directed, may help in the short term.
How a dentist can help
We check your teeth, bite, jaw movement and muscles to look for dental causes and signs of grinding. If grinding is a factor, a custom-made night splint can help protect teeth and reduce strain on the jaw. We may also suggest exercises or refer you to a GP, physiotherapist or other practitioner when that is the best next step.
When to seek help
Book a check if jaw pain lasts more than a couple of weeks, keeps coming back, or your jaw locks. See a doctor urgently for jaw pain with chest pain, shortness of breath, or after a significant injury. You can read more on Healthdirect.
Teeth grinding: signs to look for
- Waking with a sore jaw, tight face muscles or a headache.
- A partner hearing grinding noises at night.
- Teeth that look flat, chipped or shorter than before.
- Sensitive teeth without obvious decay.
Grinding can also be linked to sleep problems. If you snore loudly or feel unrefreshed after sleep, talk to your GP too.
Common questions
Can stress cause jaw pain?
Yes. Stress often leads to clenching during the day or grinding at night, which tires the jaw muscles.
Will jaw pain go away on its own?
Many cases ease within a few weeks with self-care. Pain that keeps returning or limits opening should be checked.
Could my jaw pain be a tooth problem?
Yes. Toothache, an abscess or a wisdom tooth problem can feel like jaw pain. Our guide on toothache explains more.
Reviewed by the Glenmore Park Dental Services clinical team, October 2026. This article is general information, not personal dental advice.
To book, call Glenmore Park Dental Services on (02) 4733 1197 or request an appointment. We are at Shop 17b, 11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park, and open Monday to Saturday.