Your temporomandibular joint (or TMJ) is the joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. Suffice it to say, when there is an issue with that joint it can end up causing you a lot of discomfort or pain, and make activities that you once took for granted (like eating and talking) a lot more difficult. At Elevate Smile Design, we provide personalized head and jaw pain therapy so you can live free of the discomfort of the condition.
Causes of Head & Jaw Pain
There is no one specific cause of jaw pain, and some people experience a combination of factors that lead to their condition. Teeth or jaw misalignment, jaw injury, severely damaged or decayed teeth, teeth grinding and clenching, eruption of wisdom teeth, stress, arthritis, and genetics are all common causes of TMJ disorder.
I have suffered with TMJ disorder everyday for more than 5 years. At times I was unable to close my jaw without difficulty or pain, which made speaking, yawning, chewing, coughing a constant battle. Within that time, I tried many remedies suggested by my medical doctors, other dentists and even tried physical therapy. I stopped chewing gum and had a top mouthguard made for me but that only stopped the popping sound not the pain. The first significant help came from my new dentist – Dr. Mai who prescribed a muscle relaxer which eased my symptoms dramatically. She recommended Dr. Perlman, who specializes in TMJ problems. He gave me the most thorough exam and told me exactly why I had the problem. Since I started wearing the splint I have been pain-free and symptom-free. It is my pleasure to recommend Dr. Mai and Dr. Perlman as they were dedicated to finding a solution to my TMJ problem. I am sincerely grateful. – Joanne B
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Symptoms of TMJ disorder vary on an individual basis. Here are some of the most common signs of the condition:
Jaw, facial, neck, or shoulder pain
Difficulty when chewing or biting
Sensitive teeth
Gum recession
Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing your mouth
Headaches or migraines
Earaches and tinnitus
SUFFERING WITH HEAD AND JAW PAIN?
Learn what it takes to be pain-free from the comfort of your own home!
Since everyone’s case is unique in what the cause of their head and jaw pain is and what symptoms they are experiencing, our team will perform a thorough assessment and sit down with you to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. Along with questionnaires, we use cone beam imaging to look at the relationship between your teeth, gums, and jawbone to evaluate for head and jaw pain therapy. Treatment options may include a combination of medication and physical therapy with dental treatment options including occlusal adjustments, bite splints, and surgery (if your case is severe enough). Dr. Jason Perlman has received specialized training at The L.D. Pankey Institute in TMJ therapy, and he is committed to helping you find relief.
While many people associate BOTOX with youth enhancement, it can also be used to help restore peace of mind, too. For those who suffer from TMJ disorder or myofascial headaches, therapeutic BOTOX therapy could get back to feeling like your old self in no time. Learn more about our trigger point BOTOX injections and other facial esthetic services today.