The connection between the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and facial pain is a complex weave of muscle and nerve interactions. TMJ — the abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint — is the hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. The TMJ controls many of the motions your jaw carries out, including those needed for eating and speaking. Disturbances to this delicate joint often result in an array of discomforts, with facial pain being a key indicator of an underlying Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD).
What Is Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)?
Symptoms of Temporomandibular Dysfunction
The symptoms of TMD vary among individuals. However, there are several common indicators of this condition. Facial pain, certainly, sits at the forefront. Yet, there are several others to take note of:
- Jaw pain, especially when opening and closing the mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Pop or click sounds originating from the jaw
- Locking of the jaw joint
- Headaches or migraines, sensitive teeth, and discomfort in the neck, shoulder, or ears
In the quest to relieve and manage these symptoms, a proper understanding of what triggers TMD and its resultant facial pain is paramount.
Connection Between TMD and Facial Pain
Physical Stress on the Temporomandibular Joint
TMD-related facial pain can be triggered or exacerbated by physical stress on the TMJ. This includes excessive chewing or grinding the teeth — medically referred to as bruxism — and nail-biting.
Joint Arthritis
Arthritis, which translates to “joint inflammation,” can develop in the TMJ, causing facial pain and other discomforts.
Jaw Injury
Injuries to the jaw, fractures, or dislocations, can alter the mechanics of the TMJ, leading to the development of TMD and associated symptoms such as facial pain.
Soothing TMD-Related Facial Pain: Drug-Free Solutions at Bend Headache Center
Relief from TMD-related facial pain is possible with non-surgical and drug-free solutions from Bend Headache Center. We have taken a step away from invasive and often discomforting treatments to options that are much kinder to the patient. Our solutions aim not to mask symptoms but to address the root cause of TMD and facial pain.
Oral Appliance Therapy
This involves the use of dental devices — similar to mouthguards — worn mostly at night to improve the position of the jaw and relieve pressure on the TMJ.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps improve jaw movement, providing lasting relief from TMD-related facial pain.
Your journey to a pain-free life starts with us at Bend Headache Center.
