Trigger Point Injections to Treat TMJ/TMD

TMJ pain symptoms are most frequently referred from “trigger points” in the jaw muscles, rather than directly from the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). This condition most frequently results when the muscles are overworked because a bad bite is producing hyper-irritated (“trigger”) points in the muscle. These tight, painful knots can refer pain to distant locations, creating a confusing pattern of symptoms that patients often struggle to trace back to their source.

Recognizing TMJ Disorder Symptoms

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, you might be surprised to learn that your actual symptoms could be originating from somewhere completely different. Common complaints we hear from our TMJ patients include persistent headaches (especially over the eyes or in the forehead), clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth, ear pain or “stuffiness” in the ear for which your ENT has no solution, and even inexplicable double vision or vision changes. Many patients have visited multiple specialists before realizing that a dental problem is the root cause of their symptoms.

Treatment Options and Dr. Marlin’s Expertise

Dr. Gerald Marlin of Elite Prosthetic Dentistry has been providing Trigger Point Injection Therapy of the jaw muscles as a part of his TMJ therapy for over 40 years. His extensive background includes writing his master’s degree thesis on TMJ therapy, and he was personally trained by Dr. Janet Travell, the world’s foremost authority on trigger point injections and author of the definitive text on the subject, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual.”

If you are experiencing or have suffered from pain in your jaw, headaches, decreased hearing acuity, ear discomfort, or any of the other symptoms mentioned above, you can contact Dr. Marlin by calling 202-244-2101 for him to evaluate and treat your discomfort.

Why Choose Elite Prosthetic Dentistry

Dr. Marlin’s approach to TMJ therapy is comprehensive. Although he has been able to resolve most TMJ issues without trigger point injection therapy by addressing the underlying bite problems, he also maintains expertise in trigger point injections for those cases where this additional intervention is needed. His experience and training give him the ability to recognize which patients will benefit most from this specific treatment modality.

Many pain issues that seemed intractable have been resolved with his combined approach of bite correction and, when indicated, trigger point injection therapy. If you’ve been living with chronic jaw or facial pain, relief may be just a phone call away. You can make an appointment with Dr. Marlin by calling 202-244-2101 for help with your discomfort.