Its not uncommon for patients to experience jaw tension, soreness, or discomfort after dental treatments, especially those that require keeping the mouth open for extended periods. Whether youve had fillings, crowns, implants, root canals, or extractions, temporary jaw tightness can happen and should be managed properly to promote comfort and healing.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we believe in supporting your recovery beyond the procedure. This guide will help you understand why jaw tension occurs and how to relieve it effectively.
Why Jaw Tension Happens After Dental Work
Jaw tension typically occurs because of:
Prolonged mouth opening during dental procedures
Strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles
Anxiety-related clenching during treatment
Post-procedure swelling or inflammation
This type of tension can cause:
Soreness when chewing or speaking
Difficulty fully opening your mouth
Aching in the jaw, temples, or ear area
How Long Does Jaw Tension Last?
Mild tension resolves within a few hours to a day.
More moderate soreness may linger for 25 days, depending on the length and complexity of the procedure.
In rare cases, if jaw strain affects the TMJ, discomfort may persist longer and require professional intervention.
Best Practices for Managing Jaw Tension After Dental Treatment
1. Apply Warm Compresses
Use a warm (not hot) compress on the side of your face for 1520 minutes at a time, several times a day.
This relaxes muscles and improves blood flow to reduce soreness.
2. Practice Gentle Jaw Exercises
Slowly open and close your mouth within a comfortable range.
Move your jaw side to side gently to prevent stiffness.
Avoid forcing the jaw open too wide.
3. Stick to a Soft Diet Temporarily
Eating soft foods minimizes strain on your jaw muscles.
Good options include:
Yogurt
Scrambled eggs
Soft pasta
Mashed potatoes
Smoothies (no straw for a few days)
4. Avoid Chewy, Crunchy, or Hard Foods
Skip foods like steak, tough bread, nuts, or gum until tension eases.
5. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief If Needed
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Follow dosing guidelines or your dentists recommendations.
6. Gentle Jaw Massage
Using clean hands, apply light pressure to the jaw joints, temples, and neck muscles.
Small circular motions help release muscle tightness.
7. Rest Your Jaw When Possible
Avoid excessive talking, wide yawns, or chewing gum.
Give your jaw frequent breaks throughout the day.
Preventing Future Jaw Tension During Dental Visits
Let your dentist know if you experience discomfort during procedures.
Request breaks to rest your jaw if needed.
Ask about bite blocks or supports that can help keep your mouth open without muscle strain.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out if:
Jaw pain worsens instead of improving after 35 days.
You experience clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw.
You have difficulty fully opening or closing your mouth.
Pain radiates to your ear, neck, or temple.
Persistent symptoms may indicate TMJ dysfunction, which requires professional evaluation.
Protecting Your Comfort Beyond Dental Treatment
Jaw tension after dental work is a common, temporary side effect that typically resolves with rest, gentle care, and warm compresses. Practicing the right techniques can greatly improve comfort and support smooth recovery.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, your comfort is just as important as your smile. If you experience persistent jaw discomfort or need guidance on post-treatment care, our compassionate dental team is always here to help.