Jaw Muscle Pain: When to See a Dentist or Rehab Specialist - Dentistry

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Jaw muscle pain can be a complex issue, especially when it involves multiple factors such as dental health, muscle strain, and even spinal problems. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort that may be related to both your neck condition and the muscles around your jaw, particularly the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
The symptoms you describe, including pain in the back of your head, a feeling of heat, and discomfort while chewing, suggest that there may be tension or strain in the muscles associated with the TMJ. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull and is responsible for the movement of your jaw. When this joint or the surrounding muscles become strained or inflamed, it can lead to pain that radiates to other areas, including the neck and head.

Given your history of cervical disc issues, it is possible that the tension in your neck is contributing to the discomfort in your jaw. The muscles in your neck and jaw are interconnected, and tension in one area can often lead to pain in another. For instance, if your neck muscles are tight due to the cervical disc herniation, they may cause compensatory tension in the jaw muscles, leading to TMJ pain.

To address your concerns, it would be advisable to consider the following steps:
1. Consult a Dentist Specializing in TMJ Disorders: A dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders can evaluate your jaw and determine if there are any dental issues contributing to your pain. They can also assess the alignment of your teeth and jaw, which can affect TMJ function.

2. Physical Therapy or Rehabilitation: Given your neck condition, seeing a rehabilitation specialist or physical therapist may be beneficial. They can provide exercises and treatments to alleviate muscle tension in both your neck and jaw. Techniques such as manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises can help improve your range of motion and reduce pain.

3. Pain Management: If the pain is severe, discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider may be necessary. This could include medications, heat therapy, or even injections if appropriate.

4. Self-Care Measures: In the meantime, you can try applying heat to the affected area to relax the muscles, practicing gentle neck and jaw stretches, and avoiding hard or chewy foods that may exacerbate the pain. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, can also help reduce muscle tension.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any triggers that may worsen your pain. This information can be helpful for your healthcare providers in determining the best course of action.

In summary, your symptoms could be related to both muscle strain and TMJ dysfunction, potentially exacerbated by your cervical spine issues. It would be prudent to consult both a dentist and a rehabilitation specialist to address the multifaceted nature of your pain. By taking a comprehensive approach, you can work towards alleviating your discomfort and improving your overall jaw and neck function.