Have you ever had jaw pain following whiplash? Whiplash is an acceleration-deceleration mechanism of energy transfer to the neck and head that can occur in a number of situations, including, of course, auto accidents (JADA, May 2013, p. 486). At times temporomandibular (jaw) disorders and pain present soon after a whiplash event. Other times, however, jaw pain conditions may present as “pain, restriction of motion or other symptoms at six months or more after a whiplash injury, sufficient to hinder return to normal activities such as driving, usual occupation and leisure” (Spitzer W, Skovron M, Slami L, et al. Scientific monograph of the Quebec Task Force on Whiplash-Associated Disorders: redefining “whiplash” and its management. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 1995:20 (8 suppl): 1S-73S.
At Cannon Family Dental we are associated with a team of specialists who can help us in proper diagnosis and treatment of patients who have suffered a whiplash incident and have jaw pain. In such patients it is crucial that diagnosis and treatment begin at an early stage to avoid the development of chronic pain.