Craniofacial Pain

Craniofacial pain is a term used to describe any chronic facial, neck or head pain; the most common of which is Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ or TMJD). Craniofacial pain may include frequent migraine headaches, earaches, facial-muscle stiffness and fatigue, neck and upper back tension, “lockjaw,” dizziness, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) — symptoms that can interfere with living fully and enjoying your life.

What causes TMJ and other craniofacial pain?

Many factors may be involved in causing TMJ and other craniofacial pain, such as bite problems, habitual teeth-clenching or clicking, and overall anxiety — all of which can make complicate effective treatment.

How We Can Help

At The Kaplan Center, our physicians have years of experience treating patients with craniofacial pain, and we completely reject the notion that “you just have to live with it.”

At your first visit, your Kaplan physician will take time exploring the onset of your condition, the specific nature of your symptoms and the overall status of your health. You’ll also be asked about the medications and therapies you’ve tried in the past, and what has and hasn’t worked for you.

If your pain symptoms warrant it, your Kaplan physician may order specialized diagnostic laboratory testing or refer you to a dental specialist for a bite evaluation.

After reviewing all of the factors contributing to your pain problem, your physician will work with you to create a customized and multi-dimensional treatment plan that addresses not only your immediate pain but also any possible underlying or co-existing conditions that may be causing or aggravating your symptoms.

With many years of clinical experience utilizing both alternative and conventional medical treatments to address TMJ and other craniofacial pain, the Kaplan Center’s team is able to offer a wide array of effective treatment options, including:

• Acupuncture
• Craniosacral Therapy
• Frequency Specific Microcurrent
• Meditation for Stress Reduction
• Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine
• Physical Therapy
• Prescription Medication

Additional Resources:

Website: American Academy of Craniofacial Pain (AACP)