TMJ and Facial Pain Disorders

For patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), painful muscles, headaches, and altered jaw function is a way of life. We can help with the discomfort. Using our Myotronics J5 TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation) machine, we can apply safe, low-level electrical stimulation to your head and neck, allowing built up lactic acid and waste by-products to clear, and muscles to heal. Healthy muscles and joints are necessary to healthy mouths that last a lifetime.

Some patients suffer from bites that cause chronic pain because their teeth don't fit together well. There are many solutions to these problems including orthodontics to realign teeth, or orthotics for the jaw with tooth reconstruction. A therapeutic bite splint may be used to recalibrate your jaws should you have bite related issues. Let us know if you think this may be you.

When people hear “Botox,” they automatically think of treating wrinkles or maintaining youthful complexions but Botox is used therapeutically in dentistry to treat facial pain from grinding,  OnobotulinumtoxinA, also known as botulinum toxin A or Botox can be used to freeze or relax muscles, including the masseter and temporalis muscles, the jaw muscles responsible for chewing, and clenching your teeth. Botox treatment can effectively relieve tension in your facial muscles, keeping you free from pain and preventing further wearing down of your teeth. 

Teeth grinding is the involuntary clenching and grinding that happens when you are asleep. It can be caused by stress, medications, breathing issues or bite problems. It is important to determine the cause of the grinding before prescribing a night guard. An appliance placed in the wrong patient can exacerbate problems. Please seek the care of a knowledgeable professional to fit you with the correct device. We are happy to help. 

TMJ disorders are all conditions affecting your jaw joints and surrounding muscles and ligaments. These conditions can cause several issues, including jaw pain, headaches and difficulty opening and closing your mouth.  While simple self-care practices such as massage, eating soft foods, anti-inflammatories, ice packs, supporting your jaw when yawning and avoiding gum can help, it is best to see your dentist for proper diagnosis and management.

Did you know most healthy people should not have more than two headaches a year?  Headaches are not normal. They can be caused by pathological, neural or muscular issues. You may speak to your doctor or dentist to seek appropriate care.