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Orofacial Pain

Orofacial pain is a broad term used to describe symptoms of pain and/or dysfunction in the head and neck region. Multiple causes for orofacial pain may exist, and the symptoms may include headaches, neck pain, ear pain, dental pain, facial burning or stabbing sensations, and jaw pain. Symptoms may also include unusual pains or sensations such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, muscular incoordination, or even abnormal itching or tingling in the head and neck region.

The complaints may either develop gradually (chronic orofacial pain) or have a rapid onset and can originate from neurovascular, neuropathic, or musculoskeletal causes. Common symptoms include pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck, and shoulders, as well as around the ear when chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth wide. Problems when opening the mouth too wide, the jaw can get stuck and lock in the open- or closed-mouth position. Luckily, our orofacial pain specialists can help you finally find the relief you’re looking for.

doctor checking patient's jaw

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

Often referred to as temporomandibular joint or TMJ, temporomandibular disorders encompass a broad category of conditions involving pain and/or dysfunction of the jaw joints, the muscles of the jaw (chewing muscles) or both. They can include TMJ inflammation, myofascial pain, and more TMD/TMJ disorders.

Neurovascular Disorders

The most common symptom associated with neurovascular disorders is migraine headaches.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by excessive musculoskeletal pain accompanied by chronic symptoms such as fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain processes pain signals.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. If you have trigeminal neuralgia, even mild stimulation of your face, such as from brushing your teeth or putting on makeup, may trigger a jolt of severe pain.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is associated with multiple inflammatory and neurological symptoms such as arthralgia, arthritis, Bell’s palsy, severe headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. Customarily, Lyme disease-induced TMJ arthritis is often missed by physicians who have not received an adequate education. As a result, new onset TMJ arthritis, likely associated with acute Lyme Disease, is later discovered.

Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy, named after Scottish surgeon, Sir Charles Bell, who specifically studied this nerve over two hundred years ago. Bell’s palsy causes the muscles on one side of the face to become weak or paralyzed. It affects only one side of the face at a time, causing it to droop or become stiff on that side. Typically, it is caused by trauma to the seventh cranial nerve, also known as the ‘facial nerve.’

Dr. Singer with patient

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a painful, complex condition that may be a form of nerve damage. It is often described as a burning, scalding, or tingling feeling in the mouth that may occur every day for months or longer. Dry mouth or an altered taste in the mouth may accompany the pain. Other causes include a decrease in saliva production, certain medications, fungal infections, and some systemic diseases such as diabetes. BMS is most commonly found in adults over the age of 60.

Bruxism

The two main characteristics of this condition are grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw. Bruxism may cause the following symptoms:

  • Gum Recession – Bruxism is a leading cause of gum recession and tooth loss. Grinding teeth can also damage the soft tissue directly and create a deep pocket area where bacteria is able to form and erode the supporting bone.
  • Facial Pain – Grinding can eventually shorten and blunt the teeth. This can lead to muscle pain in the myofascial region and, in severe cases, may cause chronic headaches.
  • Occlusal Trauma – The abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth can lead to fractures, which if left untreated, may require restorative treatment. To maintain optimal oral health, our dental specialists have the experience, skills, and knowledge to uniquely combine science and artistry that can literally redesign a patient’s bite. It can change a patient’s quality of life by creating a smile that is healthier and comfortable. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for bruxism. However, once the patient’s teeth have been corrected, a customized acrylic mouth guard is fabricated that can be worn whenever necessary to protect the newly designed teeth.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep problems include symptoms resulting from sleep bruxism (grinding the teeth during sleep) and clenching to conditions that result from sleep-related breathing disorders such as snoring or sleep apnea.

Trauma

Trauma, especially from automobile accidents, is a major cause of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and other facial pains.

Drs. Kaplan, Singer, and Bolding are the leading experts in orofacial pain/TMJ treatment at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, who have the advanced education and extensive clinical hours working with patients who have simple to complex symptoms in the areas of orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders.

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TMJ FAQs

Can a bad bite cause TMJ?

When teeth are misaligned, an improper bite can place additional stress on the jaw muscles and joints; this stress can lead to symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.

Can a dentist tell if you have TMJ?

Dentists can often determine if you have TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). During a dental check-up, a dentist will look for signs such as jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth, and difficulty chewing.

Can a night guard make TMJ worse?

There are instances where a night guard might exacerbate TMJ symptoms instead of providing relief. This can happen if the night guard is improperly fitted, leading to changes in bite alignment or increased tension in the jaw muscles.

Can massage therapy help with TMJ?

By applying gentle pressure and manipulating the muscles in the jaw, neck, and face, massage therapy can help improve circulation, reduce muscle tightness, and promote relaxation.

Can TMJ affect balance?

The TMJ is located near the ear, and because of its proximity to the inner ear structures responsible for balance, any dysfunction or inflammation in the TMJ area might lead to balance issues.

Is TMJ a disability?

For some people, symptoms may be mild and manageable, while for others, they can be debilitating, affecting their ability to work or perform everyday activities.

Is TMJ a form of arthritis?

Although TMJ itself is not arthritis, it can be influenced by various forms of arthritis such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

What causes TMJ flare ups?

TMJ flare-ups, often affecting the temporomandibular joint, are commonly caused by stress, hormonal changes, and posture, leading to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, also known as bruxism.

What is a good muscle relaxer for TMJ?

Each case of TMJ is unique, so its essential to tailor the treatment plan to suit the specific symptoms experienced by the individual. For this reason, the relaxation method will vary by patient.

What is the best treatment for TMJ?

Treatment for TMJ can vary based on the severity and specific symptoms but often includes non-invasive and more direct approaches. People must explore these various options to find the most suitable treatment path for their situation.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

Some of the symptoms of TMJ disorder include jaw pain and discomfort, joint sounds, limited jaw movement, headaches, ear pain, and changes in your bite.

Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?

While TMJ disorder can sometimes go away on its own, if the symptoms last for a long period of time, worsen over time, or your symptoms start off severe, you should seek treatment as soon as possible.

What foods should I avoid with TMJ?

To avoid symptoms of TMJ disorder, you may want to avoid certain foods, including hard foods like nuts or raw vegetables, chewy foods like gum, and sticky foods like caramel.

What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, meaning it’s the joint that connects your jaw to the skull. TMD, on the other hand, is an umbrella term for the disorders that affect the joint.

Can TMJ disorder cause neck pain?

Absolutely. Because everything in the body is interconnected, when there is pain in the TMJ, it can extend to the neck, shoulders, and back as well.

What happens if TMJ disorder is left untreated?

When TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can lead to complications and worsening symptoms. It can lead to damage to the jaw joint, chronic pain, limited jaw mobility, excessive wear on the teeth, and increased tooth sensitivity.

Is TMJ disorder hereditary?

TMJ disorder is not directly hereditary, but the factors that can lead to TMJ disorder can be genetic. The structure and alignment of your jaw, teeth, and bite, your susceptibility to arthritis, and your predisposition to muscle or connective tissue conditions can all contribute to your risk for TMJ disorder.

How can I address TMJ pain at home?

Applying ice and heat packs, practicing jaw exercises, maintaining good posture, and avoiding clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth can all help you address TMJ pain from home.

How long does TMJ disorder last?

How long TMJ disorder lasts depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether it’s being treated or not. Mild TMJ disorder can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, while more severe cases can last several months to years.

Can stress cause a TMJ disorder flare-up?

Absolutely! Stress is a common trigger for a TMJ disorder flare-up. Stress can often lead to jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and increased muscle tension, which can all bring on a TMJ disorder flare-up.

Book an Appointment for Orofacial Pain & TMJ Relief

If you’re experiencing persistent orofacial pain or discomfort from TMJ issues, the specialists at Greater DC Specialists are here to help. Our dedicated team offers personalized assessments and advanced treatment options to help you find lasting relief with TMJ Treatment. Don’t let pain hold you back; schedule your consultation today.

Award-Winning Care

Dr. Kaplan has recently been awarded by the American College of Prosthodontists recognizing extraordinary collegiality, outreach, and community service.