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What causes jaw pain when chewing betel nuts, and what should be done about it?

Mar 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Chewing betel nut causing jaw pain may be due to temporomandibular joint disorders, oral problems, facial muscle tension, neuralgia, or other reasons. Symptoms can be relieved through daily care and medication. If bodily discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, avoid chewing betel nuts or other irritants, maintain good oral hygiene, and undergo regular dental checkups.

Eating betel nut may cause chin pain due to reasons such as oral mucosal injury, excessive chewing, facial muscle tension, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), or neuralgia. Symptoms can be relieved through daily care and medication. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

1. Oral Mucosal Injury: Betel nut fibers are coarse and hard, which may scratch the oral mucosa—including the inner cheeks, tongue edges, and gums—during chewing. When the mucosa is damaged, pain may occur and radiate to the area around the chin. Stop chewing betel nuts temporarily to allow the oral mucosa time to heal. Maintain good oral hygiene and rinse your mouth with mild salt water after meals.

2. Excessive Chewing: Due to the hardness of betel nuts, over-chewing can overwork the muscles around the jaw, such as the masseter and temporalis muscles, leading to soreness and aching. Reduce the amount of betel nut chewed and try muscle-relaxation techniques, such as applying a warm towel to the jaw area or gently massaging the muscles around the chin.

3. Facial Muscle Tension: Chewing betel nut may lead to tension in the facial muscles, resulting in chin pain. It's important to rest the jaw and perform gentle stretching exercises for the facial muscles. Warm compresses and massage can help relieve muscle tension.

4. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Long-term betel nut chewing may contribute to temporomandibular joint disorders, causing dysfunction in the ligaments and muscles surrounding the joint. Pain may occur during movement and radiate to the chin, ears, and surrounding areas. Avoid excessive chewing to allow the temporomandibular joint adequate rest. Practice slow opening and closing of the mouth, gradually widening the mouth opening before slowly closing it.

5. Neuralgia: Stimulation from betel nut may trigger neuralgias such as submandibular neuralgia or trigeminal neuralgia, causing chin pain. Patients may take medications such as aspirin tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or ibuprofen capsules under medical guidance.

In daily life, avoid chewing betel nuts or other irritants, maintain good oral hygiene, and have regular dental check-ups. If chin pain persists or worsens, consult a doctor early for professional advice.

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