Your Comfort Is Our Priority

Dr. Blanton’s dedicated team is here to help you find relief from orofacial pain with personalized treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you return to smiling, talking, and enjoying life without pain.

What Is Orofacial Pain?

Orofacial pain can disrupt your daily life, challenging even simple tasks. At Mid-South TMJ and Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center in Collierville, we understand the discomfort and frustration this pain can cause.

Orofacial pain refers to any discomfort felt in the face, mouth, jaw, or neck area. It's a complex condition that can manifest in various ways, from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations.

The pain might be constant or come and go, and it can affect one specific area or spread across different parts of the face and neck.

Understanding the exact cause and nature of orofacial pain can be challenging, but Dr. Blanton's expertise in Collierville ensures a thorough examination and accurate diagnosis.

Whether it's a nagging toothache, tension in the jaw muscles, or something more complex, we're committed to identifying the root of the problem and providing the care you need.

Common Types of Orofacial Pain

Orofacial pain can manifest in various ways, each with its unique characteristics and underlying causes. Here are some common types that Dr. Blanton often sees in his Collierville practice:

  • Toothache: Pain originating from a tooth or surrounding gums, often due to cavities, infections, or gum disease.
  • Jaw Pain: Discomfort in the jaw joint or muscles, possibly related to TMJ disorder or teeth grinding.
  • Neuralgia: Sharp, shock-like pain following the path of a nerve, such as trigeminal neuralgia affecting the face.
  • Sinus Pain: Pressure or discomfort in the facial area related to sinus infections or allergies.
  • Burning Mouth Syndrome: A chronic condition where the mouth feels scalded or tingling, often without an apparent cause.
  • Migraines and Headaches: Tension in the face and neck can lead to headaches or migraines, sometimes linked to stress or posture.

Understanding these common types of orofacial pain helps Dr. Blanton tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring relief and comfort.

Causes of Orofacial Pain

Orofacial pain can be a complex condition with various underlying causes. Mid-South TMJ and Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center's expertise in identifying these causes ensures you receive the most effective treatment for your situation.

Here are some common causes of orofacial pain:

  • Dental Issues: Problems like cavities, gum disease, or tooth infections can lead to significant discomfort in the mouth and face.
  • TMJ Disorder (TMD): Dysfunction in the jaw joint can cause jaw, face, and neck pain. Learn more about TMJ Disorder (TMD) and how it can be treated.
  • Injury or Trauma: Accidents or injuries to the face and jaw can lead to chronic pain if not treated properly.
  • Neuropathic Pain: Damage to the facial nerves can cause persistent pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Emotional factors can lead to muscle tension and pain in the jaw and face.
  • Sinus Issues: Inflammation or infection in the sinuses can cause pressure and pain in the facial area.
  • Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea can contribute to orofacial pain.

Understanding the root cause of your orofacial pain is the first step in finding relief. Dr. Blanton will address the specific cause of your discomfort.

Mid South TMJ & Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center

Treatments for Orofacial Pain

At Mid-South TMJ and Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center in Collierville, we understand that orofacial pain can be a daily struggle. That's why we offer a variety of treatment options for your specific needs.

Here's how we can help:

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can provide temporary relief from discomfort.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: These medications reduce inflammation and can alleviate pain in the affected areas.
  • Muscle Relaxers: For those with muscle-related pain, muscle relaxers can ease tension and provide relief.
  • Oral Appliances: Mouth guards and oral splints can protect the teeth and reduce stress on the jaw. They are often used in conjunction with other treatments.
  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and therapies can strengthen muscles and improve jaw function.
  • Injections: Certain injections, like Botox, can be used to relax muscles and reduce pain.
  • TMJ Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Types of surgery might include:
    • Arthrocentesis
    • Arthroscopy
    • Open-joint surgery

Get Started On Your Orofacial
Pain Treatment

Dr. Blanton and the rest of our team treat all kinds of orofacial pain. We work to ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your condition.

Whether it's a simple oral appliance or a more comprehensive approach, we're here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Get started by scheduling your first consultation.