I had this excruciating pain on the left side of my face for what seemed like months on end. There was also a “tightness” in my chin, cheek and temple region on that side as well. I even experienced a tingling sensation in my fingers of my left hand. I had recently had my wisdom teeth removed – I went back to my oral surgeon and he told me that these symptoms were TMD. I needed relief fast. I began researching online and came across Dr. Barnett and Star Ranch Dental. Requesting more info and talking to the experts at Star Ranch? Best decision I’ve made in a while!
Jeff's Symptoms & Condition
Pain on the left side of jaw for 7-8 months
Tightness in chin, cheek and temple region on that side
Tingling in the fingers of left hand
Recently had his wisdom teeth removed
Jeff's SolutionJeff’s exam and panoramic radiograph were normal other than muscle tenderness in the regions expected with his symptoms. Additionally, since he had an upper and lower jaw whose shapes were not aligned, there was a likelihood that his lower jaw was “trapped”. The implication of this is that it contributes greatly to his TMD symptoms. We discussed TMD, rehabilitative therapies and the orthotic. We also questioned him about his sleep patterns and habits. We now understand that there is a great correlation between TMD and sleep disordered breathing (up to and including apnea). Incorporating sleep into the conversation and sleep studies into the treatment protocol enables the patient to get the best possible results.
Due to finances, he elected to have only the orthotic fabricated. In follow-up after delivery he reports that his symptoms are much improved and the tingling in his hands and tightness in his head are gone.
