Neuropathy

An intense, burning pain in your face, mouth, or neck can be a warning sign of underlying nerve damage. We offer diagnostic testing and treatment services for different types of neuropathy, including burning mouth syndrome and occlusal dysesthesia. It is important to been seen in order to prevent additional nerve damage and other complications. Call our office to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for neuropathy symptoms or book an appointment online today. 

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy describes nerve damage that can develop from injuries or disease. This condition can cause persistent, severe pain, burning sensation, numbness or tingles in the area.

Dr. Elenbaas can diagnose and treat neuropathy symptoms affecting your face, head, mouth, jaw, and neck. She specializes in the treatment of:

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS)

BMS describes ongoing burning mouth pain without obvious cause (idiopathic). You can also develop BMS from vitamin deficiencies, infections, and psychological disorders. Severe burning can affect your gums, lips, tongue, and the inside of your cheeks.

Persistent idiopathic facial pain

Persistent idiopathic facial pain describes continuous facial or tooth pain with no identifiable cause.

Post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy

Post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy causes pain when there’s damage to the trigeminal nerve, the largest nerve in your head. This condition can cause persistent and intense facial pain, even at the slightest touch.

Postherpetic neuropathy

Postherpetic neuropathy causes burning nerve and skin pain due to an underlying shingles virus infection.

Occlusal dysesthesia

Occlusal dysesthesia, also known as phantom bite syndrome, is a disorder that causes uncomfortable bite sensations, even when no teeth misalignments are present.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Remedy Clinic if you have persistent pain, tingling, or weakness in your face, neck, teeth, or jaw that you can’t manage with over-the-counter medications.

Dr. Elenbaas completes a physical exam of your head and neck to locate the origin of your pain to locate the origin of your pain, altered, sensations, or discomfort. She can also order:

• Dental and facial X-rays
• Dental examination
• Cranial nerve evaluation
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Based on the results of your diagnostic testing, Dr. Elenbaas creates a treatment plan to manage pain and other symptoms of neuropathy.

How is neuropathy treated?

Your treatment plan depends on the cause of neuropathy. Dr. Elenbaas provides a range of treatment services, including:

• Oral medications
• Topical sprays and creams
• Lidocaine patches
• Oral medication mouth stints 

Dr. Elenbaas can also refer you to a specialist if you need further diagnostic testing or specialized medical treatments. For instance, if you develop postherpetic trigeminal neuropathy from a shingles infection, she can refer you for an ophthalmology consultation to prevent vision changes and other complications.

In addition to medications, Dr. Elenbaas can recommend lifestyle and diet changes to improve overall health and lessen neuropathy side effects. She also provides referrals to cognitive behavioral therapists to help you manage stress and cope with the chronic pain of neuropathy.

Call the Remedy Clinic office to schedule a diagnostic evaluation or book a consultation online today.