Indianapolis, IN
A 22-year-old female asked:

Severe jaw joint pain started 24 hours ago, right side. pain when opening mouth and clenching. should i go to the er? worse as day went on. tmj?

4 doctor answers10 doctors weighed in
Dr. Rebecca Gliksman
Internal Medicine 40 years experience
Jaw pain: Would f/u with doc /urgent care/ ER today could be TMJ especially with clenching, could also be retrophyanrgeal abscess ( may not be painful), oromandibular dystonia, trismus or tooth/parotid abscess ( should be painful), rarely tetanus.. if you grind or clench would get a mouth guard when sleeping.if you have difficult swallowing secretions ,eating or talking go to ER as son as possible.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Louis Gallia
Surgery - Oral & Maxillofacial 47 years experience
TMJ: Sounds like TMJ. Going to ER not very useful. They will give pain meds and tell you to see a dentist. See an oral surgeon. If TMJ, ask for referral to TMJ expert.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Arnold Malerman
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Probably TMJ: ER will only give you pain meds, not treat the cause of your joint dysfunction. Please call your Dentist for immediate relief.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Elton Behner
Dentistry 39 years experience
Likely TMJ disorder: see your dentist asap fro proper diagnosis and therapy.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Nov 30, 2019
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