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Jaw Really Hurts on One Side

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By Dr Nojan Bakhtiari DR TMJ NYC - TMJ Pain Relief July 16, 2024

Jaw Really Hurts on One Side: Understanding and Treating TMJ Pain

Experiencing pain on one side of your jaw can be both perplexing and distressing. This discomfort can interfere with daily activities, making simple tasks like eating, speaking, and even smiling a challenge. If you’re facing this issue, you’re not alone. Many people suffer from unilateral jaw pain, and one common cause is Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder. Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, a renowned TMJ Specialist, provides comprehensive TMJ Treatment to alleviate TMJ Pain and restore quality of life.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. It functions like a sliding hinge, enabling you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, which is essential for talking, chewing, and yawning. This joint is located on both sides of your head, in front of your ears, and plays a crucial role in your oral and overall health.

When the TMJ is functioning correctly, it allows for smooth, pain-free movement. However, when something goes wrong, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD), a condition that can cause significant discomfort and dysfunction. TMJ disorder can affect one or both sides of the jaw, leading to varying degrees of pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder can present a range of symptoms, which can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include:

  • Jaw Pain: Pain or tenderness in the jaw is one of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder. This pain can be localized to one side or affect both sides of the jaw.
  • Difficulty Chewing: Discomfort or pain while chewing or biting can indicate TMJ issues.
  • Lockjaw: In severe cases, the jaw may lock in an open or closed position, making it difficult to move.
  • Clicking or Popping Sounds: Noises when opening or closing the mouth can be a sign of TMJ dysfunction.
  • Ear Pain: TMJ pain can often be mistaken for earaches, as the joint is located near the ear canal.
  • Headaches: Chronic headaches or migraines can be associated with TMJ disorders.
  • Facial Pain: Pain in the face, neck, or shoulders can also be related to TMJ issues.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional help. Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari specializes in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, providing effective relief from TMJ pain.

Causes of TMJ Pain

Several factors can contribute to the development of TMJ disorder, including:

1. Injury or Trauma

A blow to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction. This could result from an accident, sports injury, or even a fall.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the TMJ, leading to pain and inflammation.

3. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep, puts excessive pressure on the TMJ, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

4. Misalignment

Misalignment of the teeth or jaw, such as an overbite or underbite, can strain the TMJ, causing pain.

5. Stress

Stress and anxiety can lead to increased muscle tension, particularly in the jaw and neck, exacerbating TMJ pain.

6. Poor Posture

Poor posture, especially when working at a computer or using a phone, can strain the muscles and joints around the TMJ.

7. Genetics

Some people may be more prone to TMJ disorders due to genetic factors, including the shape and structure of their jaw.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorder

Diagnosing TMJ disorder requires a thorough examination by a specialist. Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari uses a combination of methods to accurately diagnose TMJ disorders, including:

  • Medical History: Understanding your medical history, including any past injuries, medical conditions, and symptoms.
  • Physical Examination: A physical examination of the jaw, face, and neck to identify areas of pain or dysfunction.
  • Imaging Tests: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, may be used to get a detailed view of the TMJ and surrounding structures.
  • Jaw Movement Analysis: Assessing the range of motion and function of the jaw to identify any abnormalities.

Treatment Options for TMJ Pain

Once diagnosed, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. TMJ treatment aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further damage. Common treatment options include:

1. Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can help manage TMJ pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the muscles around the TMJ, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. Techniques may include stretching, massage, and heat/cold therapy.

3. Dental Appliances

Mouthguards or splints can help reduce teeth grinding and clenching, alleviating pressure on the TMJ. These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth and can be worn during the day or night.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Making lifestyle changes can significantly impact TMJ pain. This may include:

  • Stress Management: Techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, and counseling can help manage stress and reduce muscle tension.
  • Dietary Modifications: Eating soft foods and avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods can reduce strain on the TMJ.
  • Posture Improvement: Maintaining good posture, especially when sitting at a desk or using electronic devices, can prevent muscle strain.

5. Injections

In some cases, corticosteroid injections or Botox may be used to reduce inflammation and relax muscles around the TMJ.

6. Surgery

Surgery is typically considered a last resort when other treatments have failed. Surgical options may include arthroscopy, open-joint surgery, or joint replacement.

Preventing TMJ Pain

While it may not always be possible to prevent TMJ disorders, taking proactive steps can reduce the risk and manage symptoms effectively. Tips for preventing TMJ pain include:

  • Avoid Chewing Gum: Chewing gum can strain the TMJ and should be avoided.
  • Practice Good Posture: Maintain good posture when sitting, standing, and using electronic devices.
  • Use a Mouthguard: If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a mouthguard can protect the TMJ.
  • Manage Stress: Implement stress management techniques to reduce muscle tension and prevent TMJ pain.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups can help identify and address any issues early on.

Conclusion

Unilateral jaw pain can be debilitating, but effective treatment is available. If you are experiencing TMJ pain, seeking help from a specialist like Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari can make a significant difference. With a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment, Dr. Bakhtiari provides relief from TMJ pain and helps patients regain their quality of life.

If you suspect you have TMJ disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Addressing the issue early can prevent further complications and improve your overall well-being. Remember, managing TMJ pain is possible with the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

For expert care and effective TMJ treatment, contact Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, a leading TMJ Specialist dedicated to helping patients achieve pain-free, functional lives.

About Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari

Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari is a board-certified TMJ and Oral Facial Pain specialist. He focuses his practice on TMJ disorders, oral pain, facial pain and associated headaches. He treats patients in New York City. His practice is conveniently located in midtown Manhattan three blocks from Grand Central Terminal and Bryant Park.

  • Assistant Clinical Professor, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
  • Treasurer and Committee Chair, NYU Dentistry Alumni Association
  • Diplomate, American Board of Orofacial Pain
  • Fellow, American Academy of Orofacial Pain
  • Chair of Membership Committee, American Academy of Orofacial Pain

Dr. Nojan shares his in-depth knowledge of the TMJ, oral and facial pain as Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. He taught for 5 years at Yale-New Haven Hospital as a clinical attending and course director. He is one of very few  diplomates of the American Board of Orofacial Pain  and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain.

As an expert in the field, he has been invited to lecture at New York University, New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, New York State Dental Association, Woodhull Hospital, Lincoln Medical Center, and numerous dental societies and conferences (including Greenwich and Stamford Dental Societies, New Haven Dental Association, Connecticut Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, New England Dental Society Annual Meeting).

What are treatment options offered by Dr. Nojan?

Dr. Nojan offers the best and advanced treatment options available for TMJ, facial pain, oral pain and headaches. Treatments offered by Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari are personalized to you when looking to know more about inflammation of the jaw, and may include:

  • Oral appliance therapy (custom mouthguards, nightguards, splints)
  • Therapeutic injections
  • Trigger point injections for muscle pain
  • Nerve blocks
  • Steroid injections for TMJ joint and tendons
  • Botox for TMJ, nerve pain, jaw pain and headaches
  • Therapeutic ointments and medication for oral, facial and TMJ pain

Overview of Treatments for TMJ, Facial Pain and Oral Pain

Dr. Nojan offers the most advanced and evidence-based treatment options for TMJ, facial pain, oral pain and related headaches.

“Don’t leave TMJ and orofacial pain treatments to guesswork.”

Treatments will always be personalized to you, your condition and your treatment approach preferences. We understand that some patients do not like taking medications, while others are afraid of needles, or have life-styles that prevent them from wearing a bite guard. Learn more about what happens at your first visit with Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, DDS, FAAOP. For that reasons, we offer the full range of treatment options and learning about inflammation of the jaw while also including:

TMJ Treatment options vary depending on the individual suffering from TMJ and the specifics of their condition. Since TMJ/TMD can affect the musculature, tendons, bones and joint of the jaw, a thorough examination and diagnosis is paramount prior to initiating any treatment. Treatments include therapeutic injections of muscles and the joints, custom fabricated orthotics (also called splints, mouth guards, nightguards or occlusal guards), medications, creams, botox©, jaw stretching exercises, and physical therapy.

TMJ therapies should never include grinding down of otherwise healthy teeth. It is ill-advised to suggest to a patient that grinding of their otherwise healthy natural teeth is related to the TMJ pain they are perceiving. This treatment philosophy of “correcting the bite”, by either grinding down teeth (occlusal adjustments), restoring teeth with crowns, or moving teeth with braces or invisalign©, has been debunked in the dental and scientific literature.

What to expect at your first visit to our office

At your first visit to our office, Dr. Bakhtiari and his team will thoroughly examine your jaw, face, TMJ, bite and mouth. He will determine the source and cause of your discomfort, and devise a customized treatment solution that will work for you to help with inflammation of the jaw.

The initial consultation includes:

  • Review of your medical history
  • Detailed evaluation of your pain, discomfort and/or other symptoms
  • Cranial nerve screening
  • Muscle palpation of the muscles of your jaw, head and neck
  • TMJ evaluation: evaluating the health of your jaw joints including their range of motion, tenderness and any clicking/popping sounds
  • Additional imaging if necessary: X-rays, panoramic, CT scans, MRIs
  • Additional testing as needed: diagnostic topical anesthetics, muscle and nerve blocks, blood tests

Book Your Appointment Today with Dr. Nojan!

Dr Nojan Bakhtiari / About Author
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