My jaw has been sore possibly from grinding or gritting my teeth. Now there is a small bruise on jawline. Does anyone know the cause?

Possible Causes of Jaw Pain and Bruising:

1. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ): TMJ disorders involve problems with the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. Excessive teeth grinding, clenching, or misalignment can cause TMJ symptoms, including jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, headaches, and facial pain.

2. Bruxism: Bruxism is the term for excessive teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep. Bruxism can cause jaw soreness, headaches, damage to tooth enamel, and jaw muscles enlargement. The pressure from grinding or clenching can also lead to bruising on the jawline.

3. Muscle Strain: Overusing the jaw muscles, such as during prolonged talking, chewing, or singing, can lead to muscle strain and soreness. This can also cause a feeling of tightness or stiffness in the jaw.

4. Injury or Trauma: Direct trauma to the jaw, such as a punch or a fall, can cause bruising and soreness. This can also be accompanied by swelling, pain when opening or closing the mouth, and difficulty chewing.

5. Other Underlying Conditions: In some cases, jaw pain and bruising may be caused by other underlying medical conditions, such as infections, arthritis, or certain types of cancer.

If you are experiencing persistent jaw pain and bruising, it's important to see a healthcare professional, such as a dentist or a doctor, for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can assess your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and recommend suitable management strategies.