Jaw pain is one of the clearest indications of TMJ disorder. In many instances this pain may extend throughout the head or to the neck and back, making it seem as if the problem lies elsewhere. But if you are experiencing persistent pain in or around your jaw, a thorough neuromuscular dentistry evaluation will be essential in determining if TMJ disorder is the culprit and in finding the most effective way to relieve the pain for good.
Please call 201-792-9400 today to schedule your consultation at our Hoboken dental office.
The Trigeminal Nerve
The trigeminal nerve is the largest nerve in your cranium. It is also responsible for a majority of your body’s sensation input to the brain. Running through your jaw, the trigeminal nerve innervates things including:
- The joint that connects the teeth to the jaw
- The jaw joints
- The muscles that move the jaw
When your jaw is out of alignment due to TMJ disorder, the trigeminal nerve is compressed, resulting in jaw pain, TMJ headaches, and even issues as diverse as ear aches and nasal congestion. Until pressure is relieved, this pain will persist.
Dealing with Jaw Pain
In many instances, the first step Dr. Frank will take in implementing a TMJ treatment plan is muscle relaxation. To accomplish this, he uses a TENS unit which sends gentle electrical pulses throughout your muscles, providing immediate relaxation and relief from pain.
Long-term treatment options recommended by Dr. Frank will vary depending on factors such as the cause of your TMJ and the extent of jaw misalignment. Options may include:
- ComfortGuard to be worn while sleeping
- Full time removable neuromuscular orthotic device to be worn all day and night
- Fixed orthotic device to be worn 24 hours a day
- Dental restorations
- DNA Expansion Orthodontic Therapy
- Orthodontic treatment
The goal of TMJ treatment is twofold: relieve pain and restore alignment. During your neuromuscular evaluation, Dr. Frank will carefully examine your jaw joint to determine the most effective solution for you.
If you live in the Hoboken or Jersey City area and suffer from jaw pain or other TMJ symptoms, please contact The Practice at Maxwell Place using the form at the right side of the page or call 201-792-9400 today to schedule a neuromuscular dentistry evaluation with Dr. Frank DePaola.
