Jaw pain is not uncommon and we all experience it a few times in life. In most instances it is related to dental problems like tooth decay or a broken tooth, and every now and then it may occur with a blow to the face. However, sometimes the problem can be much more serious like with jaw pain that occurs in heart attacks. It is important not to ignore joint pain especially where it is persisting or worsening and accompanied by other signs like chest pain, dizziness, facial swelling or difficulty in opening the mouth. The lower jaw is known as the mandible while the upper jaw is the maxilla. The mandible articulates with the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The jaw and overlying tissue hold the teeth in place and allow for movement to allow for chewing, talking and breathing. Apart from the tongue and cheeks that lie on either side, there is also the parotid and submandibular gland that lies in close proximity. These structures are relevant because a problem here may sometimes give rise to lower jaw (mandible) pain. Causes of Mandible Pain Pain in the lower jaw (mandible) may not always mean that the problem … Continue reading Lower Jaw Pain (Mandible) Causes and Other Symptoms