Orofacial Pain Fresno, CA
Orofacial pain describes any pain or discomfort in the head, neck, face, jaw, or mouth. Since the pain can range from mild to severe, the causes can be varied and complex. Successful diagnosis and treatment often require the expertise of an orofacial pain specialist.
At Complete Dental, we work with patients in Fresno and the surrounding area to find solutions for their orofacial pain. Our team will examine your unique case and discuss treatment options. Call us at (559) 549-6879 to schedule an appointment today.
What is orofacial pain?
According to the scientific journal, Diagnostics, Orofacial pain or OFP represents "one of the most common health problems that negatively affect the activities of daily living." OFP can describe pain and dysfunction symptoms in the head, mouth, face, jaws, or neck. These symptoms can be mild to severe, including more than just dental and jaw pain.
Headaches, neck and ear pain, burning sensations in the face, ringing in the ears or tinnitus, dizziness, abnormal itching, and incoordination of the head, neck, and facial muscles can all be symptoms of OFP. Orofacial pain can not only impact oral function but also contribute to difficulty sleeping and significantly impact quality of life.
“OFP can describe pain and dysfunction symptoms in the head, mouth, face, jaws, or neck.”
Multiple causes and risk factors can lead to OFP, and in some cases, more than one factor contributes to the problem. Common causes and risk factors include the following:
Dental issues
Toothache, gum disease, abscesses, tooth decay, and other related gum and dental issues are generally considered the most common causes of orofacial pain. Risk factors for these issues can include a genetic predisposition but typically involve poor dental hygiene and untreated gum and dental problems.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
TMD is a condition affecting the jaw joint and associated muscles, and it is generally considered the second most common cause of OFP. Risk factors contributing to TDM include orthodontic issues, trauma, arthritis, and even stress-related dental habits such as teeth grinding, also known as bruxism.
Nerve damage
Nerve compression, injury, or other types of damage can lead to chronic orofacial pain. Conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, involving sudden and intense bouts of facial pain, can be the result of nerve damage or irritation. The condition is more common in females, and other risk factors include hypertension, smoking, and age.
Muscle stress and strain
Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension in the neck and head and worsen orofacial pain. Poor posture is a leading contributing factor.
OFP trauma or injuries to the jaw or face, especially those not treated correctly. Additional risk factors for orofacial pain can include genetic factors, certain infections, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
“TMD is a condition affecting the jaw joint and associated muscles, and it is generally considered the second most common cause of OFP.”
Benefits of treatment from an orofacial pain specialist
An orofacial pain specialist is a licensed dental specialist who diagnoses, manages, and treats conditions causing orofacial pain. These providers have the advanced understanding required to diagnose and treat what is often a difficult and complex issue. Other key benefits of working with an OFP specialist include the following:Education and training
OFP specialists must demonstrate expertise in treating orofacial pain through formal education, research, or experience. Additionally, they must meet one or more of the following standards:
- Two years of formal advanced education in orofacial pain, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation
- Being a fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP)
- Passing the American Board of Orofacial Pain (ABOP) Certification Examination
Multi-faceted approach to care
An orofacial pain specialist can access various treatments, from medications and appliances to various physical and behavioral therapies. Additionally, they work with other professionals, such as dentists and physical therapists, to treat all aspects of the patient's condition.
Advanced diagnostic tools
Accurate diagnosis of OFP requires specific tools. These providers go beyond simple X-rays and employ advanced scans such as MRIs and CT scans to thoroughly examine for issues impacting the neck and head, such as tumors or problems with the blood vessels. Additionally, these providers may apply neurological and psychological tests.
Their specialized tools and training allow them to help patients relieve and eliminate pain by accurately diagnosing the source of their pain and employing targeted therapies designed to address the root causes.
“These providers have the advanced understanding required to diagnose and treat what is often a difficult and complex issue.”
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Orofacial pain treatment
Our orofacial pain specialist provides customized treatment plans to address the specific cause of the pain. Treatment usually involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, dental work, and other interventions. Common treatments include:
- Medication. Pain medications and muscle relaxers are often prescribed along with medications for nerve pain, such as gabapentin.
- Dental treatments.Can include anything from fillings and root canals to extractions and night guards for teeth grinding.
- Physical therapy.Includes jaw exercises, massage, and manipulation for those with TMD and may include posture guidance.
- Botox. Most commonly associated with cosmetic improvements, these injections can help treat TMD and other sources of OFP.
- Surgical interventionIf less invasive treatments have not produced the necessary improvement, surgery may be recommended.
The goal is to relieve pain and other symptoms, repair any damage, and address the root cause of the problem in order to produce lasting relief.
“Treatment usually involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, dental work, and other interventions.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the causes and risk factors for orofacial pain?
Q. What are the benefits of seeing a specialist for orofacial pain?
Follow-up care
The key to ensuring this lasting relief is follow-up and ongoing care, involving a combination of continued monitoring, treatment, and lifestyle modifications. Each patient's follow-up plan will be different, but it will likely involve regular check-ins to ensure treatments continue to be effective or if adjustments are necessary. Continued commitment to regular dental checkups is also crucial, especially for patients with a history of teeth grinding, TMJ, or other dental issues.
Finally, self-care is important, and patients are urged to continue to practice healthy habits and routines that reduce the risk of recurring orofacial pain. Healthy lifestyle practices include stress management, relaxation techniques, posture exercises, proper nutrition, and dental hygiene.
“Self-care is important, and patients are urged to continue to practice healthy habits and routines that reduce the risk of recurring orofacial pain.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are some common causes behind OFP?
A. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and dental problems like tooth decay or gum disease are among the leading causes of OFP. Nerve conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia and muscle tension in the face and jaw, often due to stress, can also lead to severe pain and discomfort. Sometimes, trauma to the face or jaw may result in OFP and require specialized treatment to resolve.
Q. When do I need to see an orofacial pain specialist?
A. We recommend consulting a specialist If the pain persists for several days or impairs daily activities like eating or speaking. This is especially true if over-the-counter pain medications and home care fail to provide relief. An orofacial pain specialist can diagnose complex pain conditions and offer a personalized treatment plan tailored to a patient's unique needs.
Q. Is there a cure for orofacial pain?
A. Many cases of orofacial pain can be treated effectively, leading to a meaningful reduction or elimination of symptoms. However, treatment success relies on pinpointing the underlying cause, and certain conditions that lead to OFP, such as chronic nerve pain or TMJ disorders, require ongoing management. The majority of patients with OFP can achieve long-term relief and an improved quality of life with the right treatment plan.
Q. Can I manage orofacial pain at home?
A. Several home remedies may help to alleviate mild orofacial pain. These home treatments include applying ice or heat to the affected area, over-the-counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs, and exercises to reduce muscle tension. Patients should avoid hard or chewy foods, which can also prevent further irritation of the jaw or teeth. However, persistent or worsening pain is a sign it is time to seek professional care.
Q. Can stress contribute to orofacial pain?
A. Stress is frequently a factor that can either cause or exacerbate orofacial pain. Stress often leads to behaviors that strain the muscles and joints of the face, such as teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Managing stress through techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or physical therapy can help reduce the intensity of the pain and prevent future flare-ups.
Getting to the bottom of your orofacial pain
Orofacial pain should not interfere with your daily life. Contact Complete Dental at (559) 549-6879 for more information on solutions to orofacial pain. Our team provides diagnosis and treatment in Fresno and the surrounding communities.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2024
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