A sore jaw on just one side, especially the right, can be frustrating and even concerning. It might make chewing uncomfortable, cause stiffness in the morning, and sometimes be accompanied by headaches, earaches, or clicking sounds when you open and close your mouth. At Premier Dental Club in Houston, Dr. Jaya Mangal frequently sees patients with one-sided jaw pain. The encouraging news is that most causes are treatable, but getting the right diagnosis is essential for lasting relief.

Common Causes of Right-Side Jaw Soreness

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD)

The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull and allows you to open, close, and move your mouth in multiple directions. If the joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or strained, you may experience soreness on one or both sides, along with jaw clicking or popping, headaches, and ear discomfort. In more severe cases, you may also notice difficulty opening your mouth fully.

2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding or clenching your teeth, particularly at night, can place extra pressure on one side of the jaw. As a result, the muscles may become sore and stiff, especially in the morning. Over time, this habit can also wear down your teeth and cause other dental complications.

3. Dental Problems

Sometimes the pain originates from the teeth rather than the joint or muscles. Issues such as tooth decay, an abscess, a cracked tooth, or a misaligned bite can cause uneven chewing pressure, leading to soreness on the right side of the jaw.

4. Injury or Trauma

Any recent impact to the jaw, face, or head can cause lingering soreness. Even if there is no visible swelling or bruising, the joint or surrounding muscles may still be affected.

5. Sinus Issues

Sinus congestion or infection, especially when localized on one side, can create pressure that radiates to the jaw area. This is more common in the upper jaw and may worsen when you bend forward or lie down.

6. Arthritis in the TMJ

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint, causing one-sided pain, stiffness, and a reduction in jaw movement. The discomfort may come and go or gradually worsen over time.

When to See a Dentist About Jaw Pain

You should schedule an appointment with a dentist or TMJ specialist if you experience persistent pain lasting more than a week, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, pain while chewing or speaking, clicking or locking of the jaw, swelling on one side of the face, or a sudden change in your bite. Early evaluation not only helps prevent the condition from worsening but also protects your teeth and joints from long-term damage.

How Premier Dental Club Treats Right-Side Jaw Soreness

Dr. Jaya Mangal, TMJ Specialist in Houston,  takes a comprehensive and patient-focused approach to diagnosing and treating jaw pain. During your visit, she may:

• Review your dental and medical history in detail

• Examine your bite, teeth, and jaw movements

• Evaluate the TMJ joint and surrounding muscles

• Order digital X-rays or 3D imaging if necessary

Treatment options may include:

• Custom nightguards to prevent teeth grinding and clenching

• TMJ therapy with physical therapy exercises and stress reduction techniques

• Botox® injections to relax overworked jaw muscles

• Dental restorations to correct bite imbalances

• Medication or topical treatments to reduce inflammation and discomfort

Self-Care Tips Until Your Appointment

While waiting to see your dentist, there are several steps you can take to manage discomfort:

• Apply a warm compress to the sore area for 10 to 15 minutes to relax the muscles

• Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods that require extra jaw effort

• Practice gentle jaw stretches to maintain mobility

• Monitor your posture and avoid leaning forward for long periods

• Reduce caffeine intake, since it can increase jaw clenching

Relieve Jaw Pain and Protect Your Smile

A sore jaw on the right side may sometimes be temporary. However, it can also signal an underlying TMJ issue, dental problem, or muscle condition that requires professional attention. At Premier Dental Club, we combine advanced technology with personalized treatment to identify the cause of your discomfort and provide effective, lasting relief.