Jaw Pain...Should I see my dentist or family doc? errrr...?

Ok, I'm a nurse, but I specialize in pediatrics...and I'm not a know it all kinda person...and I'm a bad patient, I wait till it's just more than I can handle before I do anything about it...
So since I'm not God, or a doctor, here's my delima:
I have pain in my right lower jaw, aching, tenderness when swallowing, opening my mouth, havent tried chewing, it even hurts to move my tongue. Slight pain radiation to my right ear. My question is, do I see my family doc as my ears are popping alittle like they have sinus pressure, or do I see my dentist for something else, actually dental related?
I'm taking motrin w/out relief. This feels like I've been hit with one good clock to my jaw, but it's non-injury.
Any ideas?
Thanks!

I would see the dentist. If you have any swelling, that could be messing with your Eustachian tube and creating the pressure you feel in your ear. Off the top of my head, I agree it could be TMJ (either a problem with the joint itself or even just the muscles). A molar/jaw infection can also cause symptoms like yours. I have problems with my jaw muscles personally. I've found that a warm, moist towel and *gentle* stretching helps. (I hold one side of the muscle with my hand and slowly open my mouth.) Without it being an injury, the GP would probably send you to a dentist anyway.

As for the pain, you could try some naproxen or see if the doctor you work under has any suggestions.

You should see your dentist you might need TMJ surgery

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