Ever wondered why, alongside the aches and tenderness fibromyalgia brings, your teeth also throb in protest? In this article, we explore how fibromyalgia can contribute to tooth pain, how to navigate your upcoming dental appointment, and at-home strategies to manage your oral health and minimize any tooth pain.
How does fibromyalgia cause tooth pain?
For those with fibromyalgia, their bodies handle feelings of touch in a stronger way, which can make the pain in their teeth feel much worse. Think about being at the dentist for normal cleaning or getting a cavity filled, and every little touch seems a lot bigger than it is. Or perhaps just brushing your teeth causes a lot of pain.
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This symptom can make simple dental care really challenging for people with fibromyalgia. Often, they might avoid going to the dentist because it’s so uncomfortable, which can unfortunately lead to bigger problems with their teeth and gums down the road.
What are the characteristics of fibromyalgia pain?
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Fibromyalgia syndrome encompasses more than just pain. It is accompanied by several additional complications including:
- tender points at specific points in the body
- pervasive fatigue
- disruptions in sleep patterns
- mental clarity issues often referred to as “fibro fog”
- jaw pain.
This condition is believed to be caused by a phenomenon called central sensitization, where the nervous system goes into a sort of overdrive, amplifying normal signals in a way that can be painful and distressing.
What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia tooth pain?
Toothaches in those with fibromyalgia aren’t always due to typical dental issues such as cavities or gum disease. Instead, fibromyalgia can cause orofacial pain that is unrelated to these common dental problems1. Recognizing the difference between tooth pain that is a direct result of fibromyalgia and pain stemming from actual dental conditions is crucial because it allows for the development of an effective treatment plan based on an accurate diagnosis. If in doubt, a visit to your dentist is always the best option.
How to deal with oral challenges with fibromyalgia
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Individuals with fibromyalgia often find themselves dealing with symptoms that affect their mouth, such as difficulty swallowing and a constant feeling of dryness. This dryness isn’t just uncomfortable – it can lead to more cavities and even tooth loss because saliva, which protects our teeth, isn’t there in enough quantity. The widespread pain that comes with fibromyalgia can also make routines like brushing and flossing can be quite challenging, making it harder to keep up with dental care.
Dry mouth
Fibromyalgia is linked to reduced salivary secretions leading to dry mouth2. There are some strategies to manage dry mouth symptoms.
- Hydration is key: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial for managing dry mouth.
- Seek relief: Consider products that replace or stimulate saliva production for additional comfort. These can be readily available from your doctor or dentist.
- Limit irritants: Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can worsen dry mouth symptoms.
Teeth grinding
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often affects those with fibromyalgia, as you may grind your teeth unknowingly in response to widespread pain or while you sleep3. This habit can erode tooth enamel and hasten tooth decay. Yet, there is no need for alarm. Dentists commonly advise wearing protective mouthguards to safeguard against this damage.
Temporomandibular joint disorders
Studies indicate that 42-49% of fibromyalgia patients also experience TMJ disorder4. The good news is that non-pharmacological approaches such as soft tissue massage can help ease these symptoms. Additionally, the use of a “bite block” during dental procedures can provide relief by reducing jaw strain.
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