Oral Facial Muscle Pain
A proper diagnosis is essential for effective orofacial pain treatment, yet it can be tricky to determine the actual problem in itself. Apart from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, the causes for orofacial pain can be systemic, neuropathic or neurovascular in nature as well.
The symptoms for orofacial pain can overlap, and sometimes the pain felt does not correlate with where the actual problem lies. For example, a patient may be having Facial Migraine, but experience pain in the teeth instead. Comorbidities such as osteoarthritis can complicate the process of getting a proper diagnosis as well.
On top of that, there are many different kinds of disorders within each category of orofacial pain. There are over 30 different types of disorders just within the category of TMJ-related orofacial pain alone.
Who Gets Orofacial Pain?
- Epidemiologic data on orofacial pain is not well documented due to the complexity and variations. It can range anywhere between 10 – 50% of the adult population, depending on the study.
- According to Benoliel et al. (2009), the prevalence of orofacial pain is around 17 – 26%, out of which 7 – 11% is chronic.
- Women are twice as likely to experience orofacial pain as compared to men, and 43% of patients report pain in five or more different areas.
The Different Types of Orofacial Pain
- Dental Pain
- Myofascial Orofacial Pain
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain
- Orofacial Pain Attributed To Lesion Or Disease Of The Cranial Nerves
- Orofacial Pains Resembling Presentations Of Primary Headaches
- Idiopathic Orofacial Pain
- Psychosocial Assessment Of Patients With Orofacial Pain
TMJ Pain by TMB
You should seek help from a trained orofacial pain specialist / TMJ doctor if your quality of life has been affected. There is no need to live with unnecessary pain or worry. Get a proper diagnosis and work with a good healthcare team, so that you can live your best life possible.
Those who have autoimmune disorders that affect the joints or who suffer from arthritis should also get checked by a qualified TMJ doctor, should they be experiencing any orofacial pain. It is critical to prevent further damage, rather than fix the problem in desperation later on. You are already coping with enough or too much pain on a daily basis.
To conclude, seek help and a proper diagnosis from a reliable TMJ doctor who cares, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed below. Remember that TMJ disorders can cause facial pain, and affect any part of the face, neck, mouth, jaw and even ears.
What Are TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders or ‘TMD’ stands for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, a painful condition which causes facial pain. The pain can be acute or chronic, and occur not only in your jaws or mouth, but also head, neck, and even ears. Whilst the root cause of TMD is yet unknown, there are a few triggers that are often stress related.
Whilst TMJ disorders can affect anyone regardless of age or sex, it is more common in adults between 20 – 40 years of age. More cases are seen in women as compared to men as well. It is also estimated that more than 30% of adults will suffer from it at some point in their lives.
Triggers & Signs of TMJ Pain
- Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth
- Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, etc)
- Other inflammatory and musculoskeletal disorders
- Jaw injuries or trauma
- Poorly positioned teeth
- Poor posture (especially in the neck and upper back areas)
- People who have a genetic disposition to pain and/or stress sensitivities
- Orthodontic braces
- Excessive gum chewing
Musculoskeletal Pain
Oral facial musculoskeletal pain refers to discomfort in the muscles and joints of the face, jaw, and neck. It is often caused by factors like teeth grinding, jaw clenching, poor posture, or injury. This type of pain can lead to headaches, difficulty chewing, and tension in the facial muscles, affecting daily activities and overall well-being.
Managing oral facial musculoskeletal pain involves a combination of self-care and professional treatments. Applying heat or cold packs, practicing gentle jaw exercises, and avoiding excessive strain can provide relief. In more severe cases, physical therapy, dental adjustments, or muscle relaxants may be recommended to restore function and reduce discomfort.
Preventing recurring pain requires maintaining good jaw habits and reducing muscle tension. Stress management techniques, proper posture, and avoiding hard or chewy foods can help protect the jaw muscles. Regular dental check-ups and early intervention for any jaw-related issues can also prevent long-term complications.
Who Gets Musculoskeletal Pain?
- People with TMJ Disorders – Those with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction often experience jaw and facial muscle pain.
- Individuals Who Grind or Clench Their Teeth – Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) puts excessive strain on jaw muscles, leading to discomfort.
- Those with Poor Posture – Incorrect head and neck posture, especially from prolonged screen use, can contribute to muscle tension and pain.
- People Under Chronic Stress – Stress can cause unconscious jaw clenching and muscle tightness, increasing the risk of pain.
- Individuals with Trauma or Injury – Accidents, sports injuries, or dental procedures can impact the facial muscles and joints.
Signs of Musculoskeletal Pain
- Jaw Pain & Stiffness – Discomfort in the jaw, especially when chewing or talking.
- Headaches & Facial Tension – Pain in the temples, forehead, or around the eyes.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds – Noises in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth.
- Limited Jaw Movement – Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully.
- Ear Pain or Fullness – Pressure or aching in the ears without infection.
- Neck & Shoulder Pain – Tension spreading from the jaw to the neck and upper back.
Other Pains
Pain in the jaw and facial muscles is often linked to TMJ disorders, but other types of pain can also contribute to discomfort. Neck pain, headaches, and even ear pain may be connected to jaw dysfunction. Understanding these related pains can help in finding the right treatment and relief.
Chronic pain in surrounding areas is often due to muscle tension, nerve irritation, or inflammation. Poor posture, stress, or repetitive strain can make the pain worse over time. Identifying triggers and managing them early can prevent long-term discomfort and complications.
Addressing these pains requires a holistic approach that considers lifestyle adjustments, therapy, and professional treatment. Simple changes like improving posture, reducing stress, and following a tailored treatment plan can significantly improve pain management and overall well-being.
Common Types of Related Pain
- Neck & Shoulder Pain – Strained jaw muscles can cause tension in the neck and upper back.
- Headaches & Migraines – TMJ dysfunction and muscle tightness can lead to persistent headaches.
- Ear Pain & Fullness – Jaw issues may cause pressure or aching in the ears.
- Tooth Pain & Sensitivity – Clenching or grinding can wear down teeth, leading to pain.
Ways to Manage Other Pains
- Correct Posture – Maintaining proper head and neck alignment can reduce muscle strain.
- Relaxation Techniques – Stress management methods like meditation and breathing exercises help ease tension.
- Physical Therapy & Exercises – Strengthening and stretching muscles can improve mobility and reduce pain.
- Professional Treatment – Seeking help from a dentist, physical therapist, or pain specialist can provide targeted relief.