Bell's Palsy is when the facial muscles become weak, numb or are paralyzed suddenly. The face looks like the patient had stroke but the symptoms are limited only to the face. The affected muscles of facial expression are controlled by the facial nerve. The facial nerve is a cranial nerve, meaning that it comes directly out of the skull and does not go through the spinal cord. This is why patients who have severe spinal cord injuries retain the control of their facial expressions.

         Bell's Palsy can occur when there is damage or compression of the facial nerve anywhere along its route out of the brain. We are not sure what causes it and there may be several causes. It is probably caused by a virus, such as the herpes simplex virus. In its pathway out of the brain, facial nerve travels through a bony canal inside the temporal bone. If the nerve gets inflamed and swells, it can be compressed against the bony walls and develop the symptoms of a pinched nerve.

         Bell's Palsy can occur is the sternocleidomastoid muscle compresses the facial nerve as it passes out of the skull at the base of the mastoid bone. After leaving the mastoid area it then continues its path through the parotid gland and divides into several branches. Infections, such as mumps, of the parotid gland can cause problems. The branches of the facial nerve control the muscles of facial expression, the tear gland, the stapes muscle in the middle ear, the taste buds in the tongue and the salivary glands.

         Bell's Palsy can sometimes be associated with TMJ problems. Dr. Padolsky is experienced in the diagnosis of TMJ and has been treating TMJ patients since 1982. He and the dentists of the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients good health and well being. You are welcome to join their family of patients. Dr. Padolsky, our TMJ doctor, is passionate about finding the cause of TMJ problems in every one of his patients. If you would like to schedule a consultation with him, call 404-874-7428 to make your appointment.