Could major dental reconstruction or implants potentially contribute to chronic pain or TMJ issues in some people?
My son went through about 2 years of extensive dental work including multiple surgeries, bone grafting, full upper implants, lower crowns, and 2 lower support implants for bite stability.
Around the time everything was completed, he developed a debilitating nonstop headache that lasted about 6 months, and almost 3 years later he still struggles with severe TMJ and chronic widespread body pain. He has seen countless specialists, and doctors are currently leaning toward some type of connective tissue disorder, but we still do not have clear answers.
Multiple dentists, including specialists in Boston, have reviewed the dental work and imaging and said everything appears structurally sound.
I understand correlation does not necessarily mean causation, and I’m not trying to blame dental work. I’m simply wondering whether major bite changes, implants, or extensive reconstruction could potentially worsen TMJ, headaches, muscle tension, nerve pain, or other chronic pain issues in some people.
Has anyone seen anything similar or have suggestions on what kind of specialist we should look into next?
Thank you 😊