Blog Post

Are you tired of dealing with facial, jaw, or mouth discomfort? If so, or if this discomfort worsens or has persisted, it may be time to speak with an orofacial pain specialist near you.

Whether it’s TMJ disorders or toothaches, these experts are committed to helping you find relief and reclaim oral and general comfort. Book an appointment today to learn more. 

What is Orofacial Pain?

Orofacial pain refers to discomfort felt in your mouth, jaw, face, or neck. It could be anything from a little twinge to severe pain and can radiate from several areas in the body. 

What Could Be Causing the Discomfort?

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The TMJ is a dual joint that connects both sides of the jaw to your skull. When it’s damaged or irritated, it can cause multiple symptoms to manifest including lockjaw, difficulty chewing, and facial pain.

• Dental Issues

Tooth decay, gum problems, or infections can all be troublemakers when it comes to orofacial pain. That’s why staying consistent with dental checkups is crucial. Remember their importance!

• Nighttime Teeth Troubles

If you’re waking up with a sore jaw or a headache, you may be unconsciously grinding your teeth in your sleep, a habit called bruxism. It can wear down your teeth, leading to sensitivity due to enamel erosion. 

• Nerve Pain

Neuralgias, such as trigeminal neuralgia, cause sharp face pains due to nerve irritation or damage. 

• Sinus Infections

Believe it or not, those annoying sinuses can also be culprits when it comes to orofacial pain. You might feel pain and pressure around your cheeks, forehead, or eyes if they get all inflamed or infected.

Proper diagnosis is key for personalized treatment, including meds, dental work, therapy, or lifestyle changes. Seeking professional help ensures that the correct  type of orofacial pain is identified and therefore treated accurately. 

What Treatments are There?

• Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can work wonders for those with mild to moderate pains. If things are more serious, we may prescribe something more substantial to help ease the discomfort.

• Physical Therapy

Physical therapy entails jaw exercises, massage, and hot/cold therapy, relaxes tense muscles and enhances jaw function. These techniques offer Relief and improve comfort for those experiencing orofacial pain.

• Dental TLC

If your pain is coming from dental issues, our dental superheroes can swoop in and save the day with things like fillings, root canals, or a little gum therapy.

• Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes, just making a few changes to your habits can make a big difference. We might suggest things like avoiding tough or chewy foods, finding ways to chill out and relax, or even wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your pearly whites from nighttime grinding.

• Surgery

When general treatments are ineffective, oral surgery is recommended. These procedures can fix structural problems or ease nerve pressure, giving you lasting relief and a better quality of life.

Why Visit TS Oral Health for Relief

Our skilled dentist, Dr. Tom Shackleton, has 26 years of experience treating dental issues, including orofacial pain. Here’s why you should choose TS Oral Health:

How We Help

• Oral Medicine: Treat complex dental issues.
• Orofacial Pain: Manage pain in the mouth, jaw, and face.
• Endodontics: Care for the inside of your teeth, like treating root (root canals) infections.

Why Choose Us

• Experienced Care: Dr. Tom has advanced degrees from Northwestern University and USC, specializing in oral medicine and orofacial pain.
• Personalized Approach: We listen to your needs and create tailored treatment plans.
• Compassionate Team: Our friendly staff ensures every visit is comfortable.

Whether you’re dealing with persistent dental pain or seeking specialized treatment, TS Oral Health is your partner. We’re committed to bringing you relief and enhancing your oral health. Schedule an appointment with our TMJ clinic in Calgary today to start your journey toward a healthier smile.