TMJ Pain and Headaches – How to Finally Put an End to the Pain

Headaches and migraines – is there anything worse?

The intensity with which these conditions attack a person can definitely have an adverse effect on their daily life. In fact, some people end up unable to get out of their beds for hours or even days when a really bad one strikes.

In order to successfully treat chronic head, neck, and/or facial pain, people need to find out what’s causing the pain in the first place.

In many cases, the issue is TMJ pain.

What are TMJ and TMJ Disorder? And how do these contribute to chronic headaches?

Headaches and Migraines: How They’re Related to TMJ Pain

The TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joints. These are the joints where the upper and lower jaws meet.

The jaw joint acts as a hinge, allowing the lower jaw to move up and down, as well as from side to side.

Sometimes, a patient can develop TMJ Disorder, which means that their jaw doesn’t function properly. The issue is typically related to misalignment – either of the teeth or the jaw joints themselves.

This misalignment strains the muscles of the head and neck. That is why people with TMJ Disorder usually describe their symptoms as chronic head, neck, and/or facial pain.

This pain can lead to intense headaches and even chronic migraines.

Finally! A Solution to Your Chronic Head, Neck, and/or Facial Pain

Many patients go to their doctor to find a solution to their chronic headaches and/or migraines. Unfortunately, the doctor can’t always offer a viable solution because their pain is actually caused by a dental disorder.

Patients that have head, neck, and TMJ pain should talk to their dentist about their symptoms. Dentists have multiple treatment options for patients experiencing TMJ pain.

These options include:

  • Dental Splints/Mouthguards: These are generally worn at night – though some dentists have their patients wear them 24/7 to start. Then, after a few months the patient can switch over to wearing them only at night. The splints protect the teeth and jaw joint from the strain that’s caused by clenching and grinding, also known as bruxism.
  • Orthotic Devices: These are also worn over the teeth, allowing the jaw joints to sit in their natural position.
  • Orthodontics: A more permanent solution is to fix the root of the problem – misalignment. Orthodontic treatment moves the teeth into their ideal positions, taking pressure off of the jaw joints, as well as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the head, neck, and face.

Don’t Wait a Moment Longer – Relief Is Around the Corner

A lot of people think they have to “grin and bear it” when they have a headache. They think it will pass, or that they’re being “dramatic” by complaining. After all, everyone has to deal with headaches, right?

Actually, few people experience headaches with the same severity that someone with TMJ Disorder or chronic migraines experiences it.

That’s why people shouldn’t wait to get some help. With all of the treatment options available, there’s no reason to wait any longer.

Don’t “grin and bear it” anymore. Relief is just around the corner.

Do you suffer from headaches, migraines, and/or jaw pain? If so, contact Dr. Westman’s office today to schedule an appointment. We can find a dental solution to finally reduce the pain you experience.

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WIND POINT DENTAL

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