Jaw pain can be more than just a minor annoyance. It can significantly interfere with your daily activities, from eating and speaking to getting a good night’s sleep. Persistent jaw discomfort may also indicate underlying issues that require professional intervention. If jaw pain affects your quality of life, consider oral surgery as a solution.
At Hamilton Family Dentistry in Baltimore, MD, Dr. Erin Wolfson specializes in advanced dental care, including oral surgery to alleviate jaw pain and restore function. Dr. Wolfson, a graduate of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, has completed extensive training in oral surgery and is certified in dental implants and Invisalign®.
Signs You May Need Oral Surgery for Jaw Pain
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, oral surgery may be the solution to address your jaw pain:
- Chronic Jaw Pain: Persistent discomfort that doesn’t improve with medication or other treatments.
- Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Pain while eating or speaking could indicate jaw misalignment or joint issues.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: Audible sounds when opening or closing your mouth may indicate TMJ disorders.
- Facial Swelling: Inflammation around the jaw area may suggest an underlying issue requiring surgical intervention.
- Frequent Headaches: Chronic headaches or migraines can sometimes be traced to jaw misalignment or joint strain.
An estimated 5% to 12% of the population is affected by temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJD), with prevalence rates higher among younger individuals and women, particularly those using supplemental estrogen or oral contraceptives.
How Oral Surgery Helps Relieve Jaw Pain
Oral surgery is a specialized treatment that addresses structural issues affecting the jaw. Here’s how it can help:
- Corrects Misaligned Jaws: Surgical procedures can reposition the jaw to align teeth and improve bite function.
- Removes Impacted Teeth: Extracting problematic teeth can alleviate pressure and reduce pain.
- Treats TMJ Disorders: Oral surgery can adjust the temporomandibular joint to minimize discomfort and improve mobility.
- Reduces Inflammation: Oral surgery can decrease inflammation and pressure by removing damaged tissue or correcting bone structure.
Oral surgery isn’t just about relieving pain — it’s about restoring function, balance, and long-term health to your jaw, allowing you to eat, speak, and live more comfortably.
Take Control of Your Jaw Pain Today
Don’t let jaw pain control your life. At Hamilton Family Dentistry, we offer comprehensive oral surgery solutions tailored to your needs. Call 410-426-8200 today to schedule a consultation and learn how our expert team can help you reclaim comfort and function.