You are here:

Dentistry/tmj & root canal

Advertisement


Question
I was diagnosed with TMJ last year. I had a root canal done yesterday and today i am having severe jaw,neck and shoulder pain. Did the root canal provoke a flare up of my TMJ? It hurts to turn my head and swallowing takes effort.

Answer
Hi Jan,

I find that some patients have temporary discomfort in the TMJ after a root canal. Not because of the root canal per se, but because their mouths were open so wide, and for such a long period of time.
This puts a lot of stress on the joint, causing it to flare up for a day or two post treatment.

I would recommend warm compresses, and an anti-inflammatory medication (ie; Motrin), to help alleviate the pain.

I hope you feel better soon!

Dentistry

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD

Expertise

I can answer a range of questions in dentistry, ranging from cosmetic dentistry, fillings, root canals, and comprehensive treatment. Specifically, my fields of interest are in CEREC technology, Invisalign (Invisable braces), and Endodontics (root canals).

Experience

Full time practicing dentist in New York City, treating all phases of adult dental needs. Specific focus on Invisalign cases, Endodontic (root canal) treatment, and CEREC single visit restorations.

Publications
Schwartz Benjamin, Boczko Fae, McKeon S. Oral Care For The Elderly. Perspectives in Gerontology December 2006

Education/Credentials
New York University College of Dentistry - D.D.S.
Woodhull Medical Center, 1 year post-graduate residency program - GPR

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.