TMJ and SLeep Therapy Centre of Phoenix - East
(480) 248-7788

Trigeminal Neuralgia

    For Patients

    Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia and TMJ

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix – East, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various facial pain disorders, including Trigeminal Neuralgia. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping patients find relief from the debilitating pain associated with this condition through personalized, comprehensive care.

    What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

    Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. It is often described as one of the most painful conditions known, causing intense, electric shock-like facial pain. The pain can be triggered by the slightest touch, even something as simple as brushing your teeth or applying makeup.

    How Trigeminal Neuralgia Relates to TMJ

    The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. Disorders of the TMJ can lead to various issues, including misalignment and inflammation, which may aggravate or even trigger Trigeminal Neuralgia. Since the trigeminal nerve is closely linked to the muscles and joints of the jaw, problems in this area can exacerbate TN symptoms.

    Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

    • Sudden, severe, and sharp pain in the face, often described as electric shocks
    • Episodes of pain triggered by everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, or touching the face
    • Periods of frequent attacks that can last days, weeks, or months, followed by remission periods
    • Pain that is typically localized to one side of the face, affecting the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, lips, or less often the eye and forehead

    Why Choose Us For Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment?

    Our team is comprised of specialists with extensive experience in treating TMJ disorders and associated conditions like Trigeminal Neuralgia. We stay updated with the latest advancements in the field to provide the best care possible. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to meet your unique needs and may include therapies such as oral appliances, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.  We prioritize patient education and involvement in the treatment process. Our compassionate team will work with you to understand your condition, discuss your treatment options, and ensure you are comfortable and confident in your care plan.

    If you are experiencing symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia, don’t suffer in silence. Contact The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix – East today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

    TMJ Trigeminal Neuralgia Relief in Phoenix

    Frequently Asked Questions About Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment in Phoenix, AZ

    Q. What is trigeminal neuralgia?

    A. Trigeminal neuralgia is a nerve-related condition that causes sudden, sharp facial pain. It involves irritation of the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to much of the face. Symptoms are often described as intense, electric-like pain episodes.

    Q. What is the difference between trigeminal neuralgia and TMJ?

    A. Many patients wonder about the trigeminal neuralgia TMJ difference. TMJ disorders typically involve jaw joint dysfunction, muscle tension, and pain with chewing or movement, while trigeminal neuralgia is nerve-based and often causes sudden shooting facial pain. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether symptoms are TMJ or trigeminal neuralgia.

    Q. Can TMJ cause trigeminal nerve pain?

    A. In some cases, jaw joint dysfunction and inflammation may contribute to nerve irritation. Patients may ask, can TMJ cause trigeminal nerve pain, especially when facial discomfort overlaps with jaw symptoms. Dr. Sims evaluates the relationship between jaw mechanics and nerve-related pain.

    Q. How are TMJ and trigeminal neuralgia connected?

    A. Trigeminal neuralgia and TMJ can sometimes share similar symptoms because the jaw joint sits close to major facial nerves. While they are distinct conditions, TMJ and trigeminal neuralgia may both contribute to facial pain patterns that require careful diagnosis.

    Q. What does TMJ shooting pain feel like?

    A. TMJ shooting pain may feel like sharp discomfort near the jaw joint, ear, or cheek, often triggered by chewing or jaw movement. Because this can resemble nerve pain, it’s important to determine whether the cause is muscular, joint-related, or neurological.

    Q. What options are available for trigeminal nerve TMJ treatment?

    A. When jaw dysfunction may be contributing to nerve irritation, trigeminal nerve TMJ treatment may include oral appliances, jaw muscle therapy, and supportive care aimed at reducing strain on the TMJ. Dr. Sims creates individualized plans based on each patient’s symptoms.
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    Learn more about what our patients have to say

    about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix - East

    Joan L.

    5.0 ★★★★★

    "I can't thank Dr. Sims and the team at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix - East enough! After years of struggling with TMJ pain and disrupted sleep, I found the relief I desperately needed here. Dr. Sims' expertise and personalized care made all the difference. I'm finally pain-free and getting the restful sleep I deserve. This center truly transformed my life!"

    Mitchell H.

    5.0 ★★★★★

    "My journey with the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre has been nothing short of remarkable. Dr. Sims is not just a skilled doctor but also a compassionate healer. The treatment I received for my TMJ issues and sleep disturbances was tailored to my unique needs. Thanks to Dr. Sims, I wake up refreshed every day, and my jaw pain is a distant memory."

    Samantha D.

    5.0 ★★★★★

    "Dr. Sims and the team at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre are simply outstanding! From the moment I walked through their doors, I felt cared for and supported. Dr. Sims' expertise in TMJ and sleep therapy is unmatched, and the results speak for themselves. Thanks to their dedicated approach, I now enjoy a pain-free jaw and peaceful, restorative sleep."