Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth, appearing as a painful white or yellowish ulcer surrounded by a bright red border. They can form on various internal surfaces, including the tongue, inside the cheeks or lips, roof of the mouth, or at the base of the gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and are not caused by the herpes virus. While generally small, they can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable due to the pain they cause.
Understanding the Connection
A canker sore can indeed cause jaw pain through both direct and indirect mechanisms. If a sore is situated near the jaw muscles, such as on the inside of the cheek or near the back of the mouth, the inflammation and localized pain can be perceived as jaw discomfort. This is because the nerve pathways in the mouth are interconnected, potentially leading to referred pain in adjacent areas like the jaw.
Indirectly, the presence of a painful canker sore can significantly alter normal chewing patterns. Individuals may instinctively try to avoid putting pressure on the sore while eating, leading to compensatory chewing on the unaffected side of the mouth. This uneven chewing can strain the muscles of mastication, which are responsible for jaw movement. Over time, this muscle strain or fatigue in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) muscles can result in soreness or aching in the jaw. The continuous effort to avoid pain during daily activities like speaking or swallowing can also contribute to this muscular discomfort.
Other Potential Causes of Jaw Pain
While a canker sore can contribute to jaw discomfort, jaw pain can stem from various other conditions. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a frequent cause, involving problems with the jaw joint and its controlling muscles, often presenting as pain, difficulty chewing, or clicking sounds. Teeth grinding (bruxism), dental issues like cavities or impacted wisdom teeth, sinus infections, and stress can also lead to jaw pain.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks, certain signs warrant professional medical attention. If a canker sore is unusually large, persists for more than two weeks, or recurs frequently, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Severe pain that interferes with eating, speaking, or drinking, or the presence of signs of infection around the sore, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, indicate a need for evaluation.
Regarding jaw pain, seek professional advice if the discomfort worsens, lasts for an extended period, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These symptoms might include fever, swelling in the jaw area, difficulty opening the mouth widely, or persistent clicking or locking of the jaw. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause of the jaw pain and recommend appropriate treatment, ensuring that any underlying conditions are addressed.