Have Persistent Face, Head, or Neck Pain? It May Be Craniofacial Pain

Here’s a not-so-fun fact: between five and ten percent of people are afflicted with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). That’s a fancy way of saying there’s something wrong with the joint that connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. If you experience pain or discomfort in your jaw, or even in the rest of your head, neck, or face, your pain may be considered craniofacial. What does craniofacial mean? Will you need TMJ therapy in Lakeway? Continue reading to find out the answers.

What Is Craniofacial Pain?

Craniofacial pain can be defined as any kind of persistent pain in the face, but also includes the head and neck. Every case is different, but most patients describe the sensation as an aching, burning, or even numb feeling. It may manifest in the form of earaches, headaches, or neck pain, although the exact cause of the discomfort will affect the type of pain that is experienced. So, what causes craniofacial pain?

Why Do You Have Craniofacial Pain?

There can be several reasons why you may have pain in your head and neck, such as:

• TMJ disorders.A problem with the temporomandibular joint is the most common reason for craniofacial discomfort. These issues are typically caused by teeth grinding, clenching, or bite misalignment. Symptoms of TMJ disorder may include facial pain, difficulty opening and closing your jaw, and a clicking sound when moving your jaw. Your dentist in Lakeway can construct an oral appliance designed to relieve your TMJ discomfort.
• Stress. Persistent stress or anxiety can result craniofacial pain. Your muscles get tense and can radiate pain through your head. It could also be caused by poor posture. By seeing your general care physician or psychologist, you can get to the heart of the matter and manage your pain.
• Sleep problems. Although the connection isn’t entirely understood yet, many medical professionals acknowledge a link between obstructive sleep apnea and TMJ disorders. Common symptoms of a sleep disorder include constant daytime sleepiness, waking up throughout the night, and snoring. If you or your dentist think you have a sleep disorder, you may be referred to a sleep specialist for further treatment.

Depending on the cause of your craniofacial pain, you may require several different treatment options. The most important thing is to talk to your dentist and get the problem diagnosed as soon as possible.

About the Practice

At Eaddy Dentistry in Lakeway, TX, we’ve built our practice around 4 central tenets – quality, affordability, trust, and comfort. Dr. Winston Eaddy is now partnering with his son Dr. Daniel Eaddy to deliver the best care possible together. They are proud to offer TMJ therapy to help deal with your craniofacial pain. If you are experiencing pain in your face, head, or neck, contact us through our website or call (512) 263-4252.