DD’s mouth can’t open wide without her jaw hurting

[Tarchie]

My teenage DD has been complaining most of the evening that she can’t open her mouth with her jaw really hurting. She couldn’t even eat her dinner properly. I’ve given her some painkillers but I wondered if anyone knew why this was happening and what I can do to help her.

One of mine has TMJ diagnosed at 13. Found a very sympathetic orthodontist and physio who worked as a team. Physio helped pain at pelvis and shoulders as well as jaw. Told frequently that resolution was easier because never had teeth removed. Top jaw and bottom jaw had grown at different speeds so took ortho a while to get them back in alignment. All cases are different but I suggest you hunt around for ortho who recognises the role physio can play.

When I had this it was a TMJ problem and my dentist was able to teach me a movement that helped get it back where it belonged quickly thus get back to being able to open and shut my mouth. I'd try to see someone urgently as this probably can be relieved more quickly with a bit of guidance. Hope it eases off soon.

Son had TMJ disorder as a teen
Needed an arthroscopy.
Will need it done again.
has EDS & dyspraxia.
Loose and unstable joints. Particularly the Jaw, hips & knees for him
Good luck can be a long process

It could be wisdom teeth or she could have strained her jaw muscles or it could be TMJ.

If she can open and close it, it's just hurting then I don't think it's dislocated. And it sounds more muscle related than wisdom tooth if it's her jaw. Is she getting a bad taste in her mouth? Or any soreness in her mouth?

I would put her on a soft diet, ibuprofen and a hot compress. I would also try salt water mouthrinses in case it's wisdom tooth related, but I think more likely to be muscle strain.

I don't think she needs to be seen sooner than next week if she can open and close, but I would give the dentist a ring and explain and see if they can extend her appointment a bit. If you notice any swelling or she's struggling to swallow, struggling to breath or cant open her mouth more than 2 fingers then that's urgent.

I strained my jaw muscles during my exams and it was painful to open and painful to bite, it was actually awful because I couldn't eat! But it went. I do clench but normally get no symptoms, it's not TMJ it was just a random muscle sprain. The problem with the jaw muscles is it's impossible to rest them because we are always swallowing.