Relief for Jaw and Muscle Pain Starts Here
Myofascial pain disorder (MPD) can be a debilitating condition that affects your quality of life. If you’re struggling with persistent jaw pain, muscle tension, or limited mobility, our dentists in Wilmington and Seaford, DE, are here to help. With comprehensive diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, we can help relieve your discomfort and restore function.
To schedule a consultation with our Wilmington and Seaford dentists, contact our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.
What Is Myofascial Pain Disorder?
Myofascial pain disorder (MPD), also known as myofascial pain syndrome, occurs when trigger points—small, tender knots in muscle tissue—develop in the jaw, face, or neck. These points can cause localized pain and radiate discomfort to other areas of the body.
MPD is a prevalent type of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and can often be treated through physical therapy, trigger point injections, and relaxation techniques.
What Are Trigger Points?
Trigger points are hypersensitive areas in muscle fibers that cause pain when pressed or overused. They can be classified as:
- Active Trigger Point: These produce consistent pain and may radiate discomfort.
- Latent Trigger Point: These are dormant but can become active with pressure or stress on the muscle.
Common Symptoms of Myofascial Pain Disorder
MPD symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency, often exacerbated by daily activities like chewing or speaking. Typical symptoms include:
- Persistent pain in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
- Muscle stiffness and tension
- Limited jaw mobility
- Referred pain, such as discomfort radiating from the jaw to the ear or neck
- Headaches and tension headaches
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Sleep disturbances caused by pain
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact our dentists in Wilmington or Seaford for a professional evaluation and treatment options.
Causes of Myofascial Pain Disorder
Several factors can contribute to MPD, including:
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Chronic clenching or grinding of teeth can strain the jaw muscles and lead to trigger points.
- Injury or Trauma: Jaw injuries from accidents, sports, or physical impacts may damage muscles and joints.
- Poor Posture: Slouching or misalignment of the neck and jaw can create stress in the muscles.
- Chronic Conditions: Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or other musculoskeletal disorders may increase susceptibility to MPD.
- Stress: Emotional stress can lead to muscle tension and worsen MPD symptoms.
Who Can Get Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Anyone can develop myofascial pain syndrome, regardless of age, gender, or occupation. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing the condition:
- History of jaw trauma or injury
- Regularly engaging in activities that put stress on the jaw and facial muscles
- Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or other chronic pain conditions
- Poor posture or jaw alignment
- Bruxism (the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth)
Effective Treatments for Myofascial Pain Disorder
Treatment for MPD focuses on relieving pain, reducing muscle tension, and addressing underlying causes. Options include:
1. Physical Therapy
Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle stiffness. Techniques such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) or ultrasound therapy may also promote healing by increasing blood flow and relaxing muscles.
2. Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can alleviate mild symptoms. In severe cases, prescription muscle relaxants, tricyclic antidepressants, or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended.
3. Trigger Point Injections
These injections deliver a local anesthetic or corticosteroid directly to the affected muscle, providing relief from trigger point pain.
4. Dental Devices
Custom-made mouthguards or splints can reduce the effects of bruxism and relieve tension in the jaw muscles.
5. Massage Therapy and Relaxation Techniques
Targeted massage and relaxation exercises can help release painful knots and reduce stress-related muscle tension.
6. Surgery (Rare)
In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This is typically considered only after other treatments have failed.
Frequently Asked Questions
To diagnose MPD, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination, assess the patient’s medical history and symptoms, and may order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. In some cases, electromyography (EMG) or other specialized tests may also help diagnose the condition.
While MPD isn’t always preventable, good habits can reduce your risk. These include:
- Maintaining proper posture
- Avoiding teeth grinding or clenching
- Using ergonomic tools and positions at work
- Engaging in regular exercise and stress management
Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief
Living with myofascial pain disorder can be challenging, but effective treatments are available. At our Wilmington and Seaford dental offices, we specialize in personalized care to help you feel your best.
Schedule your appointment today by calling Wilmington at (302) 999-7600 or Seaford at (302) 536-7589. We proudly serve Wilmington, Seaford, and the surrounding areas in Delaware.
