Why Does My Jaw Hurt on One Side?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
One-sided jaw pain typically stems from TMJ disorders, dental issues, or muscle strain. TMJ dysfunction affects up to 12% of adults and causes pain when chewing, talking, or opening your mouth wide. Dental problems like tooth infections, cavities, or wisdom teeth can radiate pain throughout one side of your jaw. Muscle tension from teeth grinding, stress, or poor posture creates localized soreness. Less commonly, sinus infections, trigeminal neuralgia, or jaw injuries cause unilateral pain. If pain persists beyond a few days, worsens with movement, or includes swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, seek medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
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