Jaw pain in children

Overview

Jaw pain in children is discomfort or soreness in the jaw area. It can range from mild to severe and often happens because of problems with teeth, gums, or the jaw joint itself.

Yes, jaw pain is a frequent complaint among children, especially during teething or when they have dental cavities.

It affects children of all ages, but the causes tend to vary by age. Infants often have jaw pain from teething, while older children may get it from dental problems or injuries.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw, cheek, or ear area
• Trouble opening the mouth wide
• Pain when chewing or yawning
• Swelling around the jaw or face
• Headache or earache

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness or crying more than usual
• Refusing to eat or drink
• Pulling at the ear (may seem like an ear infection)
• Trouble sleeping
• Grinding teeth at night

Symptoms in older adults

• Jaw pain in older adults is often due to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or arthritis, but this topic focuses on children.

Causes

Main causes

• Teething – new teeth pushing through the gums can cause jaw discomfort.
• Dental cavities – decay in baby or permanent teeth can cause pain that spreads to the jaw.
• Ear infections – the ear and jaw share nerves, so an infection can feel like jaw pain.
• Injury to the jaw – such as from a fall or sports accident.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) – often happens during sleep and can make the jaw muscles sore.
• Sinus infections – pressure from congestion can be felt in the upper jaw.

Risk factors

• Young age (especially infants and toddlers going through teething)
• Poor dental hygiene or not visiting the dentist regularly
• Participating in contact sports without a mouthguard
• History of ear infections or sinus problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has a fever along with jaw pain, especially if the face or neck is swollen.
• After a fall or injury that makes it hard to move the jaw.
• If your child cannot eat or drink because of the pain.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If jaw pain lasts more than a few days without improving.
• If your child complains of pain when chewing or has trouble opening their mouth.
• If you notice signs of a dental problem, like a tooth that hurts or looks discolored.

Diagnosis

A doctor or dentist will ask about your child's symptoms and look inside the mouth. They may gently press on the jaw to check for tenderness.

Tests that may be done

• Dental X-rays to look for cavities or problems with the teeth and jawbone.
• Sometimes blood tests if an infection is suspected.
• Very rarely, an MRI or CT scan if a more serious issue is possible.

What to expect at your appointment

The visit is usually quick and painless. The healthcare professional will explain what they think is causing the pain and suggest next steps. If tests are needed, they will tell you what to expect.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the jaw pain. Many cases get better with simple home care. For infections or dental problems, medical or dental treatment may be needed.

Self-care at home

• Apply a warm compress to the sore jaw area for 10–15 minutes.
• Offer soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies.
• Encourage your child to rest the jaw and avoid hard or chewy foods.
• Give over-the-counter pain relief suitable for your child's age, as advised by a pharmacist or doctor.

Medical treatments

If the pain is from an infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Dental cavities might need a filling or other dental procedure. For teeth grinding, a dentist can provide a custom mouthguard to wear at night. For severe TMJ problems, a specialist might recommend physical therapy or exercises.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for jaw pain in children. It may be considered only in cases of severe injury, a large abscess (collection of pus), or a growth that does not respond to other treatments.

Living with this condition

Help your child manage pain by sticking to a soft diet and avoiding activities that make the jaw hurt, like chewing gum. Encourage gentle jaw movements when the pain improves.

Lifestyle tips

• Practice good oral hygiene – brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• If your child grinds their teeth, talk to a dentist about a mouthguard.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks to prevent cavities.

Diet and exercise

During pain episodes, offer soft, non-acidic foods. As the pain resolves, gradually reintroduce normal foods. Gentle jaw stretches (if recommended by a professional) can help with stiffness.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic jaw pain can be frustrating and may affect your child's mood or sleep. Reassure them that the pain is temporary and that you are working with a doctor to help them feel better.

Prevention

Some causes of jaw pain, like teething, cannot be prevented. However, good dental habits can prevent many dental problems. Using a mouthguard during sports can prevent injuries.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dental infections can spread and cause more serious illness.
• Untreated cavities can lead to tooth loss or abscesses.
• Chronic TMJ problems might cause long-term jaw stiffness or pain.

Long-term outlook

For most children, jaw pain is temporary and gets better with simple care. With proper treatment, even more serious causes usually heal well and do not lead to lasting problems.

Find support

International organisations

• International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD)

Local organisations

• Your local dental clinic or hospital paediatric department · Worldwide

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