Many people aren’t aware that TMJ disorder, a common condition that results in the dysfunction of the jaw joints, can lead to a slew of consequential, persistent conditions and symptoms, like chronic headaches and migraines. The good news is that your dentist can help treat your symptoms if they’re caused by TMJD! Read on to learn how to tell if your headaches are due to TMJ disorder or if they’re the result of some other underlying condition.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder, sometimes referred to as TMJD, is a condition that impacts the function of the two joints that connect your lower jaw to your upper jaw, called the temporomandibular joints. These are surrounded by muscles and nerves that help you chew, speak, and smile comfortably, but when the jaw joints are overworked or filled with tension due to not moving fluidly or with ease, it can also impact these muscles and nerves. As a result, patients can experience a wide array of symptoms, ranging from pain in the neck and shoulders to migraines.
Are Your Headaches Caused by TMJ Disorder?
One of the most common, but also most disregarded, symptoms of TMJ disorder are chronic headaches, and in some cases, migraines. These headaches are frequent and lingering, and they can have a noticeable impact on your ability to focus at work or just get through your day. In some cases, these headaches can be a result of teeth grinding that happens at night (also a sign of TMJD), or muscle tension and spasms that radiate from the jaw joints.
Other Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can also lead to a number of other symptoms, including:
- Clicking and popping of the jaw joints when you open and close your mouth.
- Pain and tension in the neck and shoulders.
- Jaw tenderness.
- Nightly teeth grinding.
- An aching pain in or around the ear.
If you notice one or more of these, it’s likely that you could suffer from TMJ disorder, and receiving an examination could be the first step towards you finding relief.
How to Treat TMJ Headaches
If you suffer from headaches caused by TMJ disorder, your dentist can help minimize them by providing you with targeted treatment. This can include an occlusal splint that can be worn at night, which will help prevent your teeth from grinding against each other and shift your jaw into a more comfortable position. Or, your dentist may recommend BOTOX injections, which can help relax the muscles surrounding the jaw joints and minimize uncomfortable symptoms like headaches.
The best way to learn whether your headaches are the result of TMJ disorder is to speak with a qualified professional, like your dentist. Upon reviewing your X-rays and conducting a thorough examination of your mouth, they can determine what treatment method will help relieve strain on your jaw joints as well as your headaches.
About the Practice
At Legacy Trails Dental of Plano, our team is comprised of four committed professionals who are dedicated to helping their patients achieve their healthiest, most comfortable, and happiest smiles. One of the ways our team does this is by providing personalized TMJ treatment in the form of targeted BOTOX injections and occlusal splints. To learn more about this service or request an examination, visit Legacy Trails Dental of Plano’s website or call 469-208-6017.