• Full dental implants , Maxillofacial , Oral surgeon ,
• 31 Jan

Many people suffer from situations that cause them to experience jaw pain. Living with jaw pain isn’t something you want to continue to do. It’s important that you find relief from jaw problems with the help of a medical professional. You’ll find that there are both upper and lower jaw surgery procedures in order to help you achieve the help you need, no matter where the surgery is needed. Many people living with jaw problems report that a common side effect is having pain in this area. Considering that, here are four common reasons people experience pain in the jaw area.

1. Wisdom Teeth

It’s understandable to feel concerned when thinking about having your wisdom teeth removed. Fortunately, you’ll be relieved to know that many people have this procedure done each year. In fact, nearly 5 million people in the United States have their wisdom teeth removed annually. Certain people can live their entire lives without their wisdom teeth giving them any problems. However, many others will eventually need to have jaw surgery procedures conducted in order to remove wisdom teeth.

2. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Many people experience jaw pain and are unsure of the cause until they visit a medical professional. One of the most common causes of jaw relates to TMJ disorders. Statistics show that about 35 million throughout the United States have been diagnosed by a medical professional as having TMJ disorder. Among the many people living with TMJ, only about 66% will seek treatment for this condition. The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is an area of the jaw that people sometimes grind or clench frequently. In fact, many people experience TMJ as the result of dealing with anxiety issues.

3. Direct Damage to Jaw

Of course, there are unfortunate situations in which you might suffer physical damage to your jaw. Many people experience jaw injuries after suffering from an automobile accident. You’ll find that there are many types of oral surgery procedures that help rebuild jaws from the prior damage that these areas have suffered in the past.

4. Teeth Grinding

It’s common for teeth and jaw pain to be closely related. The teeth are located on top of the jaw and contain nerve endings that travel far underneath the surface of these teeth. Therefore, it’s common to think you’re dealing with jaw pain while teeth pain is the actual culprit. Unfortunately, many people grind their teeth throughout the United States. One person might grind their teeth while they sleep and others might only grind their teeth as a coping mechanism for stressful situations.

These are a few distinct causes of jaw pain that people experience. Certain people will be told by their dentist that they’ll need to have their wisdom teeth removed. You might feel worried at the thought of having these teeth removed but you’ll want to know it’s a procedure that many people have done throughout the year. Another reason to experience jaw pain relates to having TMJ disorder. However, this situation is commonly remedied by a dental mouthguard. Jaw surgery procedures are often needed when someone has experienced damage to this area of the face. It’s common to get bouts of teeth grinding confused with jaw pain due to the fact that these two areas are close in proximity to each other.

How to find a jaw pain specialist

Jaw pain can be a persistent issue that affects your daily life, often caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, stress, or underlying dental conditions. Finding a qualified jaw pain specialist is essential for effective treatment and relief. Here’s how to locate the right professional for your needs.

1. Consult Your Dentist: Start by visiting your dentist, as they are often the first to recognize TMJ issues or other dental problems causing jaw pain. Many dentists have experience with basic treatments for jaw pain and can refer you to a specialist if needed.

2. Research Specialists: Look for healthcare professionals with expertise in jaw pain management, such as TMJ specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, or physical therapists specializing in jaw issues. Use online directories or consult professional associations like the American Dental Association (ADA) for recommendations.

3. Check Credentials and Experience: Ensure the specialist has relevant certifications, such as training in TMJ disorders or oral surgery. Read patient reviews to understand their experience and success rates.

4. Ask About Treatment Options: Before committing, ask about the treatment methods they offer. Effective approaches may include medication, physical therapy, dental appliances, or surgery for severe cases.

5. Verify Insurance Coverage: Jaw pain treatments can be costly, so confirm that the specialist accepts your insurance or offers payment plans if needed.

6. Schedule a Consultation: Meet with the specialist to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals. This will help you gauge their approach and decide if they’re the right fit for your care.

Taking these steps can help you find a jaw pain specialist who meets your needs and puts you on the path to lasting relief.