Do you suffer from headaches that never seem to go away? Have you considered that the root cause might be related to your jaw – specifically, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins, who have over 25 years of experience, know that TMJ disorders are a common yet often overlooked cause of chronic headaches.
This blog will help you understand some essential characteristics of TMJ headaches and provide insight into whether or not TMJ disorders are responsible for your pain.
What Are TMJ Headaches?
The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to the side of your head. It’s located just in front of your ears.
When this joint is misaligned, or the muscles around it are stressed, it can lead to various issues, including headaches.
TMJ headaches occur when the tension in the jaw muscles and joints radiates up to the head. This causes discomfort in areas like the temples and the back of the head.
Common Signs of TMJ Headaches
TMJ headaches often share symptoms with more common types of headaches, making it difficult to distinguish them. Some of the most important signs to be aware of include:
- Pain around the temples or behind the eyes
- Jaw pain or tenderness, especially after eating or talking
- Stiff neck or shoulders
- Clicking or popping sounds when you chew or yawn
- Teeth grinding, particularly at night
If you experience these symptoms along with your headaches, TMJ disorders could be to blame.
How Are TMJ Headaches Treated?
Because TMJ headaches have a different cause than other types, they require unique treatments. Potential solutions to TMJ headaches include:
- Custom night guards to prevent teeth grinding
- Physical therapy to relax jaw muscles
- Stress management techniques to minimize jaw clenching and grinding
- Neuromuscular dentistry, which focuses on the alignment of the jaw and the muscles, nerves, and bonesÂ
In severe cases, you may also need surgery to realign the jaw and relieve pressure on the joint.
Get Help at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, we specialize in treating TMJ-related issues. Our experienced team can provide solutions to alleviate the discomfort caused by these disorders.
Schedule a consultation with Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics today to discover how we can help you live pain-free. Call our South Hill office at 509-532-1111 or our Spokane Valley office at 509-927-2273.
