What causes jaw pain while chewing?
Patient: Hello, I started Invisalign about 3 or 4 weeks ago and just a week and a half ago I started experiencing jaw pain on my left side very close to my ear and it hurts while chewing. I'm very nervous because I'm still having pain and I think my jaw may be dislocated. My orthodontist had me stop the Invisalign until the 7th of December to see if my jaw heals...any idea what I can do to help it? Doctor: Hi..Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns..As per your complain pain in jaw while chewing when you are wearing Invisalign can be due to pressure implicated over the teeth to make them move to come in proper alignment and makes chewing uncomfortable..At times pressure changes can effect the jaw leading to pain in the jaw joint area too, however not necessary that it is dislocated..I would suggest you to consult your treating dentist or an Oral Surgeon and get evaluated and a panoromic x ray will be taken to rule out any discrepancy present with jaw joint as well as all your teeth will be evaluated through it..As of now you can take anti inflammatory painkiller like Ibuprofen along with muscle relaxant like Chlorzoxasone and also take a soft diet..Avoid excessive mouth opening like while yawning..Avoid stress and take care..You can also discuss with me further by sending scan of your Panoromic x ray by asking a question by clicking on my profile and clicking on "Ask me a question"I will evaluate your x ray and guide you how to proceed further..Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards.Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora..