Facial and Jaw Pain

Getting to the source of TM joint troubles, to resolve pain and support comfort and health for good

As experts in airway health at VIA Health Group, we fully understand and appreciate the role airway and related structures have in myriad functions – from how well you breathe to how comfortably you chew your food. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorders or TMJDs) may be rooted in problems such as sleep-disordered breathing. 

Treatment resolves pain and other distressing symptoms. It also prevents the many health complications associated with the likes of OSA. Effective and advanced therapies are available at our Canton, Ohio office, courtesy of our craniofacial sleep medicine certified provider, Dr. Jeff Danner. Sustained health, comfort, and well-being may be achieved with something as straightforward as a special oral device or appliance. The best approach for you and all our valued patients across greater Akron starts with accurately identifying the “source” or underlying problem responsible for TMJDs, SDBs, and other related conditions like chronic bruxism.

About TMJ Disorders

We cannot treat what we do not know. So, Dr. Danner will comprehensively evaluate for potential causes or contributing factors to TMJ dysfunction. The TM joints are on either side of the face. They connect the skull to the jaw and are responsible for sliding movements, such as opening and closing the mouth. When the joints and connected structures, and tissues are “disordered,” pain may arise. Other symptoms associated with TMJDs include:

  • Chronic headaches 
  • Aching facial and jaw pain 
  • Earaches 
  • Tinnitus (ringing of the ears)
  • Neck, shoulder, and back pain 
  • Locking or difficulty opening and closing the mouth
  • Pain when chewing food
  • Dizziness

The joints and interconnected tissues may become disordered due to the stress placed on them. “Stress” may be due to trauma to the face and jaw, as well as degenerative conditions like arthritis. Additionally, chronic bruxism (or teeth grinding) places considerable pressure on the joints and associated parts, such as the surrounding muscles. Bruxism is also associated with sleep disorders like sleep apnea. When individuals cannot breathe properly while sleeping due to obstruction of their airway they may unknowingly clench and grind their teeth. This behavior can then produce TMJD symptoms, including radiating facial and jaw pain and frequent migraines. 

Advanced, hyper-focused, and customized treatment

Recommended treatment is unique to you. Depending on what we find, you may be an excellent candidate for therapy with the Vivos® method. Vivos® works differently from other appliances that may be used to manage OSA and its side effects and complications; this approach actually works by resolving the underlying problem. Vivos® devices are designed to gradually alter the tissues responsible for a narrow or collapsed airway. With an expanded airway, patients can breathe and sleep unimpeded through the night. Furthermore, they notice an improvement in TMJD symptoms and avoid scary OSA-related complications like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. 

To find out more about the Vivos® method and to see if you are a good candidate for advanced treatment that supports real relief and lasting health, contact VIA Health Group. Our office in Canton, OH, may be reached at (330) 915-3390.

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