Posted: November 14, 2013
Severe, chronic headaches sometimes described as migraines may actually be a symptom of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD), a common condition that is often related to jaw alignment problems, bite conditions or other dental issues.
The Calgary dentists at Aesthetic Dental Studio have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ/TMD. If you’re suffering from migraine-like headaches that have otherwise defied explanation, please call us today at 403-543-4600 to schedule your consultation.
Intense, recurring headaches are the most commonly reported symptom associated with TMJ/TMD, but they are typically accompanied by other symptoms that include but are not limited to:
- Face and jaw pain
- Jaw sticking or locking
- Jaw popping or clicking
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Difficulty biting and chewing
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
The discomfort associated with TMJ/TMD stems from undue stress placed on or inflammation of the temporomandibular joint and other components in the connective region between your jaw and your skull. This network includes the trigeminal nerve, which registers sensation throughout your face.
There are a number of TMJ/TMD treatment options available, depending on the source of your condition. Some patients are able to relieve their pain with the use of transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (TENS), which delivers mild electrical pulses to relax your jaw muscles and allow your jaw to settle into a comfortable, natural resting position.
Other patients may be better served by custom-made dental appliances similar to sports mouthguards, which hold your jaw in proper alignment as you sleep. Patients with TMJ/TMD caused by more severe bite conditions may benefit from orthodontic treatment.
If you experience regular migraine-like headaches and other symptoms of TMJ/TMD, please contact Aesthetic Dental Studio today. Our dentists welcome patients from the greater Calgary area.
