
Unexplained facial pain can be frightening, frustrating, and life-altering—especially when the symptoms don’t fit into typical medical or dental categories. Many patients visit multiple providers before discovering the true cause of their discomfort. Conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy (PTTN), and burning mouth syndrome are uncommon, complex, and often misunderstood, leaving patients feeling discouraged or overlooked.
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham is an experienced orofacial pain specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing these intricate, high-impact conditions. His advanced training in facial nerve disorders, muscle dysfunction, and chronic pain pathways allows him to provide care that is difficult to find elsewhere.
If you’ve been searching for answers—or feel like your symptoms haven’t been taken seriously—Dr. Bloxham is here to help.
Understanding These Serious Orofacial Pain Conditions
Orofacial pain can originate from nerves, muscles, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the oral cavity, or trauma. Unlike routine dental pain, these conditions often require highly specialized evaluation and treatment.
Below are some of the uncommon but significant disorders Dr. Bloxham helps patients navigate.
Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)
Often referred to as “the suicide disease,” trigeminal neuralgia is one of the most severe facial pain conditions. Patients may experience:
- Sharp, electric-shock facial pain
- Sudden, intense episodes triggered by mild stimulation
- Pain affecting the jaw, cheek, or around the eye
- Difficulty eating, speaking, or performing daily tasks
Because TN involves the trigeminal nerve, accurate diagnosis is essential. Dr. Bloxham uses detailed clinical evaluations to help identify the type and cause of TN and collaborates with neurologists when necessary to support comprehensive care.
Post-Traumatic Trigeminal Neuropathy (PTTN)
PTTN occurs when the trigeminal nerve becomes damaged following:
- Dental procedures
- Facial trauma
- Injections
- Surgeries
- Accidents or falls
Symptoms may include burning, tingling, numbness, or stabbing sensations. Unlike typical nerve “irritation,” PTTN is often persistent and requires targeted treatment strategies.
As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Bloxham is uniquely equipped to evaluate nerve injury, understand its dental or structural causes, and guide patients toward meaningful relief.
Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS)
Burning mouth syndrome involves chronic burning, tingling, or scalding sensations—often without visible signs of irritation. Symptoms may include:
- Burning on the tongue, lips, or palate
- Metallic or bitter taste
- Dry mouth sensation
- Symptoms that worsen as the day goes on
BMS can be difficult to diagnose and is frequently misattributed to psychological causes, leaving patients feeling dismissed. Dr. Bloxham takes these symptoms seriously and uses a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to identify contributing factors and provide supportive care.
Why Choose an Orofacial Pain Specialist?
These conditions fall outside the training of most general dentists and physicians. Orofacial pain specialists receive advanced education in:
- Facial nerve disorders
- Chronic pain mechanisms
- Joint and muscle dysfunction
- Airway and breathing interactions
- Neuropathic pain syndromes
- Trauma-related nerve injuries
Dr. Jared Bloxham combines this specialized knowledge with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. He takes the time to listen carefully to each patient’s history, symptoms, and concerns—because these conditions are real, serious, and deserve proper attention.
Comprehensive, Patient-Focused Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the patient’s diagnosis and symptoms, but may include:
✓ Targeted nerve-related therapies
For neuropathic pain, including TN and PTTN.
✓ Oral appliance therapy
To reduce jaw-related triggers or muscle strain that may worsen nerve conditions.
✓ Injection therapy
Including nerve blocks or targeted muscle therapy.
✓ Medication guidance and collaborative care
Co-managing treatment with neurologists, ENTs, or pain specialists.
✓ TMJ and muscle therapy
For cases where muscle tension contributes to facial pain.
✓ Lifestyle, habit, and functional assessments
To identify triggers like clenching, airway problems, posture, or sleep-related factors.
Whatever the condition, the goal is clear: reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.
You Don’t Have to Live in Pain—Expert Help Is Available
If you’ve been struggling with unexplained facial pain, nerve symptoms, burning sensations, or chronic discomfort that others haven’t been able to diagnose, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.
Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ provides specialized evaluation and treatment for complex orofacial pain disorders.
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Call today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward answers, relief, and a better quality of life.











