Headaches and Jaw Pain and Splints, Oh My!

TMJ can be an overwhelming, frustrating, and sometimes scary disorder. Much like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, your world can feel like it's flipped upside down when you're experiencing TMJ pain.

PHOTO CREDIT: SUPRIJONO SUHARJOTO/ISTOCK

Each day, we speak to so many patients who have limited jaw mobility, have difficulty chewing or talking, suffer from mild to severe headaches, and have neck, shoulder, and even lower back pain. People are often shocked by the fact that their jaw muscle can have such a tremendous impact on their lives.

We have some patients that are professional singers, violinists, and other musicians that delay recording and often feel depressed by their inability to preform. Others feel burdened by TMJ because it limits their ability to socialize because they are uncomfortable talking and going out to eat with friends or family. Other patients feel frustrated because they have been slipping with a splint, night-guard, or orthotic device and have not had any relief (to read more about splint therapy and why it may not be working click here: http://thetmjdoctor.blogspot.com/2013/09/splint-therapy-for-tmj.html).

With so many different symptoms and treatment options it's no wonder that TMJ can be an overwhelming diagnosis. We want to help you down your path to treatment and TMJ pain relief.

People do not always associate headaches and earaches with jaw pain but many times those symptoms correlate directly with TMJ/TMD. Frequently, these are symptoms of malocclusion which means that the jaw is not balanced and the stress of this imbalance can lead to jaw pain. Dr. Farnad has been successfully treating TMJ for over two decades and has the ability to tailor treatment plans specifically to each patient's individual symptoms. It is so important to understand that no two people experience TMJ in the same way. This knowledge allows you choose a doctor that recognizes your individuality as a patient.

Many times patients experience some symptoms and not others. Many patients have told us that they cannot believe their headaches are from TMJ because they do not experience clicking or popping sounds coming from their jaw. Other patients tell us they hear sounds coming from their jaw but have no other symptoms and chances are, these two patients will need a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause and the solution for their TMJ.

If you are experiencing:

- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Neck pain
- Grind your teeth
- Hear clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw
- Have a difficult time opening, closing, or moving your mouth
- Have earaches

You should consult a doctor to discuss treatment options. Often times, people are afraid of going to the dentist. However, the appropriate specialist can significantly decrease your jaw pain, even remove pain completely! We hope even if your nervous about navigating the TMJ treatment path, you will visit Dr. Farnad to get a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.

To schedule a consultation call us at (310)276-5300 or toll free (855)276-5300

421 N. Rodeo Dr. Ste T8

Beverly Hills, CA 90210

www.thetmjdoctor.com

www.bhcomfs.com  

Dr. Fariborz Farnad is a TMJ specialist located in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Treating patients throughout Los Angeles, including Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, Orange County, Long Beach, Downey, Irvine, Northridge, Cerritos, Santa Barbara, Encino.

Dr. Oz Talks About TMJ

Today we found a great article on Dr. Oz's website about grinding and of course we love sharing these articles with you! 

Some key points mentioned in the article are:

1. If you experience tightening or pain in the jaw, headaches, your teeth feel worn down, your fillings are breaking or broken, your gums are injured, or you make grinding sounds while sleeping, you should see a dentist immediately.

2. Custom nightguards made by your dentist can relieve some pain and can prevent further grinding or bruxism. However, as mentioned in our previous posts, nightguards or splints are not for everyone. An oral surgeon will be able to give you a better grasp on your individual needs.

3. Botox injections can relieve over-active muscles or spasms occurring in the jaw, head, and neck. 

4. Relaxation is very important, massage therapy and physical therapy can alleviate jaw pain. \

5. Increase your intake of Vitamin B and Vitamin C to stop depression and anxiety. This will help calm you down and hopefully decrease your grinding/bruxism. 

6. Get active! Release your tension through excercise.

Most importantly, if you are in pain call us for a consultation so we can provide you with the treatment plan that is created just for you, because your TMJ symptoms are unique just like you! 

Dr. Farnad

Los Angeles TMJ Specialist

www.thetmjdoctor.com

www.facebook.com/bhcomfs

For more information about this article: http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/gerald-p-curatola-dds/are-you-grinder