It’s understandable that you’re hoping the tingling in your face is being caused by TMJ disorder, since multiple sclerosis can also cause this symptom.
Certainly temporomandibular joint disorder is much more preferable to having multiple sclerosis.
The so-called “TMJ” is often successfully treated with a custom-fitting mouthpiece.
“Any impingement on the craniofacial nerves of the head and neck can cause dysfunction of facial musculature,” says Jeffrey Haddad, DDS, of Doolin Haddad Advanced Dentistry in Rochester, MI.
“Tingling on the top of the head, on the face and down the neck are many symptoms I have seen in the TMJ patients I treat,” continues Dr. Haddad.
“This ‘tingling’ is a very subjective description, so others may refer to it as ‘tension or tightness, but nevertheless, it is the result of a poor jaw posture and TMJ disorder.
“However, the majority of these patients are also experiencing other head and neck symptoms and have the signs of a TMJ disorder.”
Those other symptoms may include a headache, ear pain or pain near the ear, issues with chewing and opening the mouth and even snoring.
How to Find Out if Tingling in the Face Is Caused by TMJ Disorder
“In order to assess if the ‘tingling’ is related to a TMJ situation, a thorough exam of the head and neck is necessary,” says Dr. Haddad.
“Using digitalized bite analysis, we can determine if the person has an unstable bite or any prematurities causing a poor jaw position.
“We also utilize computerized technology that measures the muscular activity of the four main facial muscle groups.
“If there is tension in certain muscles where the patient is experiencing the tingling, this is usually confirmation that it is a muscular issue caused by poor jaw posture.
“Despite our findings, a 3D cone beam CT is taken on all TMJ patients and sent out to be read by a radiologist to rule out any suspicious lesions or abnormalities that could be causing that ‘tingling sensation.”
Dr. Haddad lectures nationally on cosmetic dentistry, TMJ disorders and practice marketing, and utilizes the latest technology to ensure the utmost in patient comfort and care.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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