Jun
Eating is usually one of the most enjoyable things we do every day. Most of us love savoring our favorite snacks and meals, and chewing not only allows us to process food but also draws out its flavor even longer. But when you have jaw pain while eating, this process can feel like a nightmare, negating any positive aspects of even the most delicious meal.
Jaw pain when eating can have many root causes. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is among the top culprits. You could also have a misaligned bite, and certain traumatic jaw injuries could also cause throbbing jaw pain while limiting effective movement.
Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments in Solana Beach, California, to alleviate jaw pain, depending on the root cause of your condition and other factors. At Pearlmax Oral Surgery, our chief Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. German Trujillo, has the knowledge and expertise to provide lasting pain relief using techniques such as TMJ arthroscopy, corrective jaw surgery, and even jaw reconstruction to restore your jaw’s proper function free from discomfort.
Jaw pain can have many causes, and knowing the underlying factors is important when Dr. Trujillo is trying to decide the best course of treatment. A few common sources of jaw pain can include:
Maxillofacial surgery is a field that specializes in correcting jaw issues due to injuries, abnormal development, and other disorders involving the neck, face, and jaw. This medical discipline consists of a range of effective surgical procedures to improve motor function, relieve pain, and even improve cosmetic facial aesthetics. Using the latest technology and medical techniques, Dr. Trujillo can find highly effective solutions that will give you the relief you need.
TMD, a condition that impacts the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull, can cause pain accompanied by popping or clicking sounds. It can also lead to trouble closing or opening your mouth and, for some, even headaches and migraines. Maxillofacial surgery offers many TMD treatment options, such as joint realignment, arthroscopy, and joint replacement for more severe cases.
Misaligned bite, also called malocclusion, is another condition that can cause jaw pain while eating. It happens when your upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, resulting in painful chewing, potential special issues, and even short- and long-term tooth damage. Orthodontic treatments can help resolve issues with your bite.
If you are suffering from jaw pain caused by traumatic injury, TMD, or a misaligned bite, maxillofacial surgery can realign your jaw using techniques like orthognathic surgery. This procedure repositions your jaws, giving you proper balance, alignment, and lasting pain relief. For more information, call Pearlmax Oral Surgery at (858) 434-7554 to schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Trujillo today and start enjoying food again.