Why Do My Cheeks Hurt?
Cheek pain can stem from various sources. It's crucial to identify the underlying cause for effective treatment.
Several conditions can cause cheek pain. These include:
- Sinus Infection: Inflammation and infection in the sinuses can cause pressure and pain in the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes. [See Cleveland Clinic and Healthline articles].
- Tooth Abscess: An infection at the root of a tooth can radiate pain to the cheek. [See Cleveland Clinic and Healthline articles].
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Problems with the jaw joint (TMJ) can lead to pain in the cheeks, jaw, and temples. This is often due to clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism). [See Cleveland Clinic, Healthline, WebMD, and TruCare Dentistry articles].
- Periodontal Disease: Gum disease can cause inflammation and pain that may extend to the cheeks. [See Cleveland Clinic article].
- Nerve Conditions: Conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve (trigeminal neuralgia) can manifest as sharp, shooting pain in the face, including the cheeks. [See Healthline and WebMD articles].
- Dental Procedures: Recent dental work, such as extractions or braces, can cause temporary cheek pain. [See Healthline and Oakbrook Ortho articles].
- Mouth Ulcers (Canker Sores): These painful sores, often found on the inner cheeks, can make eating and talking difficult. [See Alberta Health Services and Cleveland Clinic articles].
- Other Medical Conditions: Various other medical conditions can sometimes lead to cheek pain. A doctor can help determine if this is the case. [See Cleveland Clinic article].
Determining the Cause
The location and nature of the pain (sharp, dull, throbbing, etc.) can offer clues. For example, pain focused near a specific tooth might indicate a dental problem, while diffuse cheek pain could point towards a sinus infection or TMD.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your cheek pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by other symptoms (fever, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth), or doesn't improve with home remedies, consult a doctor or dentist immediately. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
