pain |
A Modern approach to jaw and facial pain
Are you tired of living with constant face pain, jaw pain, headache and discomfort caused by Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) issues? Are you seeking a proven, evidence-based approach to find lasting relief from myofascial pain?
Look no further!
Look no further!
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and facial pain encompass a range of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), jaw muscles, and surrounding structures. These conditions can result in various symptoms, including pain, restricted jaw movement, and discomfort. Some common types of TMD and facial pain are:
Myofascial and Chronic Pain:
Characterized by localized muscle pain and tenderness, often due to trigger points in the jaw and neck muscles. Pain may be localized to the joint area or radiate to other areas of the face and head causing headaches and discomfort. Patients can experience restricted or uneven movement, pain eating, chewing, swallowing and speaking. The pain is often a deep, dull aching type pain and can vary in intensity and location. Common areas for this type of pain include behind the eyes, unexplained sinus pain, ear pain, pain in the cheekbones, pain anywhere along the jawline. It's also possible to feel pain in the teeth. If you have unexplained tooth pain that your dentist has cleared of pathology, it may be worth exploring referred symptoms from muscles.
Referred pain can be severe and long term. The good news is that it can be treated and this type of pain responds well to trigger point therapy, gentle exercise and heat. Movement is an essential component of rehabilitation for this type of pain and can have lasting results. The key is the right type of movement, and this is where our treatment programs shine.
Traumatic Injuries and Acute Pain:
Injuries to the jaw, head, or neck can lead to acute TMD and facial pain. This type of pain is usually sharp, stabbing type pain and localized to the jaw joint. Common minor soft tissue injuries occur for many reasons such as after wisdom teeth removal, orthodontic treatment, biting into something awkwardly or a knock to the face. Severe trauma may result in structural damage, inflammation, and muscle strain. After an injury like these, usually the joint needs rest, a soft diet, maybe a dental splint. Your GP or dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatories to help relieve the symptoms. It should improve after about 10 days. Sometimes you may experience ongoing chronic myofascial type symptoms once inflammation has settled.
Disc Displacement or Internal Derangement of the TMJ:
Involves a displacement of the disc or other structural issues within the joint. The disc within the TMJ may be out of its normal position and not returning during jaw movement. May cause clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw, as well as pain during jaw movement. If the joint is stuck open or closed, speak to your dentist. They may refer you to a specialist to get more information about the joint and disc. This kind of joint problem is best reviewed and treated by a specialist dentist. If you are concerned, speak to your general dentist to see if you need a referral.
Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease:
Inflammatory conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the TMJ. Joint inflammation can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased jaw mobility. Gradual wear and tear of the TMJ structures, leading to changes in the joint's function and structure. Can result in chronic pain, joint noises, and limited jaw movement. This requires a specialist appointment with dental specialist such as an oral surgeon or orofacial pain specialist. They may refer for x-rays or scans to properly view and assess the joint.
Neuropathic Pain:
Involves nerve-related pain in the face or jaw. Conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia or glossopharyngeal neuralgia can cause sharp, shooting pain. This type of pain is best managed by pain specialists.
It's important to note that many individuals may experience a combination of these TMD types, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, often involving a dentist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, physical therapist or myofunctional therapist experienced in TMJ disorders, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of TMD and facial pain.
What Drives Chronic TMJ Pain
Facial pain and Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) can stem from various factors such as trauma, muscle tension, improper jaw alignment, genetics, oral habits, dysfunctional chewing, swallowing and/or dysfunctional breathing patterns.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can contribute to muscle tension, joint pain, and the development of trigger points. Clenching and grinding can occur for multiple reasons. Sometimes it's a matter of muscular tension driving more muscular tension particularly from the neck and the jaw itself. Stress, anxiety, and other emotional factors can contribute to muscle tension and the development or exacerbation of TMD symptoms. Stress tends to increase clenching, grinding and increase in pain.
Dysfunctional breathing at night can also contribute to clenching. Clenching the jaw during sleep can be your body's defence mechanism to partial or complete closure of the airway during sleep. Sleep disordered breathing is an important issue to speak to your GP about. If you're struggling with night-time clenching and you're not waking refreshed, consider speaking to your GP about a sleep study. Did you know that dysfunctional breathing can contribute to chronic and uncontrolled clenching, grinding, trigger point formation as well as snoring, fatigue and forward head posture. Read more in our blog on myofunctional therapy and pain
Why Movement for Healing?
Understanding the therapeutic value of movement in addressing myofascial pain and restrictions in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is crucial for effective rehabilitation. Here's why movement plays a key role in the treatment of TMJ issues:
Increased Blood Flow and Oxygenation:
Movement stimulates blood flow, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the affected muscles and fascia around the TMJ. Improved circulation helps in the removal of metabolic waste products, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Breaking the Pain Cycle:
Controlled and purposeful movement helps relax tense muscles. Trigger points often develop in areas of muscle tension, and movement can contribute to releasing this tension, reducing the intensity of trigger points. Gentle exercises can disrupt the feedback loop between trigger points and the central nervous system, reducing pain signals and promoting a sense of relief. Movement exercises help restore joint flexibility, preventing stiffness and promoting better overall function.
Dysfunctional Muscle Patterns and Weakness:
Chronic trigger points can contribute to muscle weakness and atrophy. Movement helps maintain muscle strength and prevents further weakening of the affected muscles. Movement therapy contributes to neuromuscular coordination, helping the brain and muscles establish healthier movement patterns. This can be particularly important in addressing underlying causes or contributing factors to the development of trigger points. Including movement in trigger point therapy empowers patients to actively participate in their healing process. Patients who engage in prescribed exercises and movement routines become partners in their own recovery. Movement therapies often have positive psychological effects, reducing stress and anxiety that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of trigger points. Engaging in physical activity can promote a sense of well-being and relaxation.
Myofascial and Chronic Pain:
Characterized by localized muscle pain and tenderness, often due to trigger points in the jaw and neck muscles. Pain may be localized to the joint area or radiate to other areas of the face and head causing headaches and discomfort. Patients can experience restricted or uneven movement, pain eating, chewing, swallowing and speaking. The pain is often a deep, dull aching type pain and can vary in intensity and location. Common areas for this type of pain include behind the eyes, unexplained sinus pain, ear pain, pain in the cheekbones, pain anywhere along the jawline. It's also possible to feel pain in the teeth. If you have unexplained tooth pain that your dentist has cleared of pathology, it may be worth exploring referred symptoms from muscles.
Referred pain can be severe and long term. The good news is that it can be treated and this type of pain responds well to trigger point therapy, gentle exercise and heat. Movement is an essential component of rehabilitation for this type of pain and can have lasting results. The key is the right type of movement, and this is where our treatment programs shine.
Traumatic Injuries and Acute Pain:
Injuries to the jaw, head, or neck can lead to acute TMD and facial pain. This type of pain is usually sharp, stabbing type pain and localized to the jaw joint. Common minor soft tissue injuries occur for many reasons such as after wisdom teeth removal, orthodontic treatment, biting into something awkwardly or a knock to the face. Severe trauma may result in structural damage, inflammation, and muscle strain. After an injury like these, usually the joint needs rest, a soft diet, maybe a dental splint. Your GP or dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatories to help relieve the symptoms. It should improve after about 10 days. Sometimes you may experience ongoing chronic myofascial type symptoms once inflammation has settled.
Disc Displacement or Internal Derangement of the TMJ:
Involves a displacement of the disc or other structural issues within the joint. The disc within the TMJ may be out of its normal position and not returning during jaw movement. May cause clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw, as well as pain during jaw movement. If the joint is stuck open or closed, speak to your dentist. They may refer you to a specialist to get more information about the joint and disc. This kind of joint problem is best reviewed and treated by a specialist dentist. If you are concerned, speak to your general dentist to see if you need a referral.
Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease:
Inflammatory conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the TMJ. Joint inflammation can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased jaw mobility. Gradual wear and tear of the TMJ structures, leading to changes in the joint's function and structure. Can result in chronic pain, joint noises, and limited jaw movement. This requires a specialist appointment with dental specialist such as an oral surgeon or orofacial pain specialist. They may refer for x-rays or scans to properly view and assess the joint.
Neuropathic Pain:
Involves nerve-related pain in the face or jaw. Conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia or glossopharyngeal neuralgia can cause sharp, shooting pain. This type of pain is best managed by pain specialists.
It's important to note that many individuals may experience a combination of these TMD types, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, often involving a dentist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, physical therapist or myofunctional therapist experienced in TMJ disorders, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of TMD and facial pain.
What Drives Chronic TMJ Pain
Facial pain and Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) can stem from various factors such as trauma, muscle tension, improper jaw alignment, genetics, oral habits, dysfunctional chewing, swallowing and/or dysfunctional breathing patterns.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can contribute to muscle tension, joint pain, and the development of trigger points. Clenching and grinding can occur for multiple reasons. Sometimes it's a matter of muscular tension driving more muscular tension particularly from the neck and the jaw itself. Stress, anxiety, and other emotional factors can contribute to muscle tension and the development or exacerbation of TMD symptoms. Stress tends to increase clenching, grinding and increase in pain.
Dysfunctional breathing at night can also contribute to clenching. Clenching the jaw during sleep can be your body's defence mechanism to partial or complete closure of the airway during sleep. Sleep disordered breathing is an important issue to speak to your GP about. If you're struggling with night-time clenching and you're not waking refreshed, consider speaking to your GP about a sleep study. Did you know that dysfunctional breathing can contribute to chronic and uncontrolled clenching, grinding, trigger point formation as well as snoring, fatigue and forward head posture. Read more in our blog on myofunctional therapy and pain
Why Movement for Healing?
Understanding the therapeutic value of movement in addressing myofascial pain and restrictions in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is crucial for effective rehabilitation. Here's why movement plays a key role in the treatment of TMJ issues:
Increased Blood Flow and Oxygenation:
Movement stimulates blood flow, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the affected muscles and fascia around the TMJ. Improved circulation helps in the removal of metabolic waste products, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Breaking the Pain Cycle:
Controlled and purposeful movement helps relax tense muscles. Trigger points often develop in areas of muscle tension, and movement can contribute to releasing this tension, reducing the intensity of trigger points. Gentle exercises can disrupt the feedback loop between trigger points and the central nervous system, reducing pain signals and promoting a sense of relief. Movement exercises help restore joint flexibility, preventing stiffness and promoting better overall function.
Dysfunctional Muscle Patterns and Weakness:
Chronic trigger points can contribute to muscle weakness and atrophy. Movement helps maintain muscle strength and prevents further weakening of the affected muscles. Movement therapy contributes to neuromuscular coordination, helping the brain and muscles establish healthier movement patterns. This can be particularly important in addressing underlying causes or contributing factors to the development of trigger points. Including movement in trigger point therapy empowers patients to actively participate in their healing process. Patients who engage in prescribed exercises and movement routines become partners in their own recovery. Movement therapies often have positive psychological effects, reducing stress and anxiety that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of trigger points. Engaging in physical activity can promote a sense of well-being and relaxation.
How are we different?
Why Myofunctional Therapy
We are dental practitioners with extensive post graduate education in the normal and healthy movement of the face, jaw, lips and tongue. When the jaw and facial muscles move in harmony we can wake without pain, we can feel good when we yawn, we can bite into that big burger and we can rest without clenching. Its much more than just exercises. Its looking at function as a whole
Better than Botox
Botox is a toxin injected into the muscle that forces it to relax and switch off. It is very expensive and requires ongoing injections to maintain symptoms. There are cases where people find it a useful adjunct to help act as a 'circuit breaker' for pain and clenching. However, ongoing Botox injections over years can have damaging effects on the muscles. It really isn't targeting why the pain is there. It also has no rehabilitation benefit considering its reducing your movement when really, we want to be able to move more.
Dental Splints
These certainly do have a place and can be help in many situations. Often times, a splint wont stop you from clenching but they do protect your enamel which is a precious and finite material worth protecting. Severe tooth wear from grinding is expensive to treat and high risk of breakage, so even after any repair work, you will still be required to wear one. Splints can reduce the severity of muscle activity with clenching and help to decompress the joint. Dentists who have a special interest in TMJ issues may be able to design a splint that helps with joint issues. Joint problems are situations where the jaw gets locked, loud popping when open and closing or you have inflammation in the joint which feels like sharp, stabbing pain in the joint area. This type of pain and joint issue is best handled by the right dentist. However, they still don't provide any real rehabilitation of muscular pain and dysfunction. If you still have tightness, tension, restricted opening or achy type pain its worth considering additional rehabilitation.
Kids with Pain
This is never ok or normal, children with TMD symptoms, especially those that involve a joint issue like locking or loud popping should seek an assessment. These issues often don't go away with time. The important thing to remember is that kids a growing and bones are changing. If these issues are picked up early, often times referral to the right orthodontist can make a life changing difference. Addressing growth issues that place more pressure on the joint can be fixed relatively easily. Its always harder to change these once growth has finished.
Practitioners:
Myofunctional therapists are health professionals specifically trained in myofunctional therapy techniques. It is an area of post graduate training for dental professionals and speech therapists. These professionals often work in multidisciplinary teams to address orofacial issues in children and adults.
How are we different than a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are highly trained health professionals that treat a broad range of musculoskeletal issues throughout the body. Myofunctional therapy is a specialized area focused purely on orofacial muscles and function. Both therapies have their distinct applications and are valuable in addressing specific health concerns. Physiotherapy can be extremely useful for TMD. However, if this has not been successful for you, then perhaps consider a new approach to assess the overall function (not just your jaw but also your tongue, lips, oral habits, oral rest posture and breathing.
We are dental practitioners with extensive post graduate education in the normal and healthy movement of the face, jaw, lips and tongue. When the jaw and facial muscles move in harmony we can wake without pain, we can feel good when we yawn, we can bite into that big burger and we can rest without clenching. Its much more than just exercises. Its looking at function as a whole
Better than Botox
Botox is a toxin injected into the muscle that forces it to relax and switch off. It is very expensive and requires ongoing injections to maintain symptoms. There are cases where people find it a useful adjunct to help act as a 'circuit breaker' for pain and clenching. However, ongoing Botox injections over years can have damaging effects on the muscles. It really isn't targeting why the pain is there. It also has no rehabilitation benefit considering its reducing your movement when really, we want to be able to move more.
Dental Splints
These certainly do have a place and can be help in many situations. Often times, a splint wont stop you from clenching but they do protect your enamel which is a precious and finite material worth protecting. Severe tooth wear from grinding is expensive to treat and high risk of breakage, so even after any repair work, you will still be required to wear one. Splints can reduce the severity of muscle activity with clenching and help to decompress the joint. Dentists who have a special interest in TMJ issues may be able to design a splint that helps with joint issues. Joint problems are situations where the jaw gets locked, loud popping when open and closing or you have inflammation in the joint which feels like sharp, stabbing pain in the joint area. This type of pain and joint issue is best handled by the right dentist. However, they still don't provide any real rehabilitation of muscular pain and dysfunction. If you still have tightness, tension, restricted opening or achy type pain its worth considering additional rehabilitation.
Kids with Pain
This is never ok or normal, children with TMD symptoms, especially those that involve a joint issue like locking or loud popping should seek an assessment. These issues often don't go away with time. The important thing to remember is that kids a growing and bones are changing. If these issues are picked up early, often times referral to the right orthodontist can make a life changing difference. Addressing growth issues that place more pressure on the joint can be fixed relatively easily. Its always harder to change these once growth has finished.
Practitioners:
Myofunctional therapists are health professionals specifically trained in myofunctional therapy techniques. It is an area of post graduate training for dental professionals and speech therapists. These professionals often work in multidisciplinary teams to address orofacial issues in children and adults.
How are we different than a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are highly trained health professionals that treat a broad range of musculoskeletal issues throughout the body. Myofunctional therapy is a specialized area focused purely on orofacial muscles and function. Both therapies have their distinct applications and are valuable in addressing specific health concerns. Physiotherapy can be extremely useful for TMD. However, if this has not been successful for you, then perhaps consider a new approach to assess the overall function (not just your jaw but also your tongue, lips, oral habits, oral rest posture and breathing.
How it works:
Our expertise are the face and jaw muscles. We use a targeted approach to address common areas of pain in the face, jaw and head. We use a combination of brief and specific manipulations followed by exercise prescription for lasting results. You will feel immediate relief and we will explore deeper reasons as to why you feel pain. Its a rehabilitation program for your face and jaw
This program is designed in line with modern research on treatment of jaw and face pain. We complete a full health history, pain mapping and functional assessment of your jaw. We target the muscles that are causing your pain and use movement techniques as a healing agent. Learn about your pain and understand which symptoms need which self-care technique. This program can be extremely effective for many types of pain. Common issues we treat is unexplained tooth, sinus or ear pain, clicking joints, limited jaw opening and related headaches. We can work in conjunction with your doctors and dentists for comprehensive approach. Programs usually range from three to twelve weeks depending on complexity.
This program is designed in line with modern research on treatment of jaw and face pain. We complete a full health history, pain mapping and functional assessment of your jaw. We target the muscles that are causing your pain and use movement techniques as a healing agent. Learn about your pain and understand which symptoms need which self-care technique. This program can be extremely effective for many types of pain. Common issues we treat is unexplained tooth, sinus or ear pain, clicking joints, limited jaw opening and related headaches. We can work in conjunction with your doctors and dentists for comprehensive approach. Programs usually range from three to twelve weeks depending on complexity.
How it Works:
- Reduce Muscle Tension: Targeted trigger point therapy followed by specific movements and exercise prescription to alleviate tension in the jaw muscles to reduce deep dragging pain and discomfort (on average exercises take 2 minutes per day)
- Improving Muscle Coordination: Enhancing the coordination of facial and jaw muscles for more efficient and less painful jaw movements.
- Correcting Posture: Proper oral posture of the tongue, jaw, and head can reduced strain on the temporomandibular joint and restore long term overall function
- Promoting Healthy Habits: Addressing habits like teeth grinding or clenching, which can exacerbate TMD symptoms.
What Can You Expect from Our Program?
- Pain Reduction: Experience a reduction in pain and discomfort through targeted hands-on release techniques.
- Improved Jaw Functionality: Enhance your jaw's range of motion and functionality, promoting smoother and pain-free movements.
- Customized Exercise Regimens: Receive personalized exercises to improve range of movement, strengthen and rehabilitate muscles and address the root causes of your condition.
- Education on Myofunctional Therapy: Understand the importance of proper oral and facial muscle function, learning practical exercises to improve overall function and prevent future issues.
- Lasting Relief: Our evidence-based approach ensures not just temporary relief but long-lasting results, enabling you to reclaim your life from the grips of facial pain and TMD.
