Chronic Facial Pain Relief

Orofacial pain refers to pain that originates from the soft and hard tissues of the face, including the mouth, teeth, or jaw and often involve complex interactions between nerves, muscles, and the vascular and skeletal systems. Because the pain may arise from multiple sources, and the fact that the face is densely packed with nerves, even seemingly minor issues can cause significant discomfort. Whether minor or severe, all cases require careful evaluation and management.

Chronic pain, as characterized by persistent discomfort in the face, mouth, or jaw that lasts for weeks or even months, represents a complex and serious issue. Unlike acute orofacial pain, which has a clear cause and typically resolves, chronic pain can persist even after the initial injury or underlying condition gets treated. Ranging from mild discomfort to more severe pain, chronic facial pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making everyday activities uncomfortable and challenging.

Chronic orofacial pain may be associated with the following conditions:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• Chronic Migraines
• Atypical Facial Pain
• Cluster Headaches

While each condition affects different areas of the face and has unique triggers, all share the common feature of long-term discomfort and the need for specialized care.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Facial Pain

As a board certified and residency-trained orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Kim employs a wide range of diagnostic tools to uncover the root causes of chronic facial pain. Imaging techniques, such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, are often used to visualize joint or bone abnormalities, while nerve blocks can help in the diagnosis and treatment of nerve pain. We understand that managing chronic facial pain often requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, and we work as part of a skilled healthcare team, as indicated, to reduce pain and improve each patient’s quality of life.

At Nevada Orofacial Pain, TMJ And Sleep Clinic, Dr. Kim uses the latest technology and treatment methods, including the leading non-surgical approaches to alleviating the underlying condition and its associated discomfort. Non-invasive options may include physical therapy, medications like muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatories, and behavioral therapy for stress management. More advanced treatments might involve Botox injections to relax muscles, nerve blocks, or in rare cases, surgical interventions to correct underlying issues.

What is an Orofacial Pain Specialist?

An orofacial pain specialist receives advanced didactic and clinical training following four years of dental school and earning their dental degree. Their training includes a multiyear residency program accredited by the American Board of Orofacial Pain, focusing on diagnosing and treating complex pain conditions affecting the face, mouth, and jaw. During their training, they acquire expertise in neuroscience, pain mechanisms, sleep disorders, and advanced diagnostic techniques to manage a wide range of conditions, including temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), neuropathic pain, headaches, and sleep apnea. With a comprehensive knowledge of orofacial pain, origins, diagnosis, and treatment, orofacial pain specialists are well-equipped to provide an integrated approach to care. They employ various treatment modalities, such as physical therapy, medications, behavioral interventions, conservative non-surgical, and minimally invasive procedures to treat patients with chronic orofacial pain conditions that often elude conventional dental and medical approaches.