Gnathitis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Gnathitis is a medical condition that involves inflammation of the jaw. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, trauma, or autoimmune diseases. The symptoms of gnathitis can vary, but often include pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation, and may include medications, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Gnathitis can be caused by a variety of factors. These can include:

  • Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can lead to inflammation of the jaw.
  • Trauma: Physical injury to the jaw can cause gnathitis.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the jaw.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of gnathitis can vary depending on the underlying cause, but often include:

  • Pain in the jaw
  • Swelling of the jaw
  • Difficulty opening the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for gnathitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation. This may include:

  • Antibiotics or antiviral medications for infections
  • Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
  • Physical therapy to improve jaw movement
  • In severe cases, surgery may be required to treat the condition

See Also[edit | edit source]

Gnathitis Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD