Is it Migraine or TMJ Headache? Temporomandibular Disorder

Telltale Signs of TMD Jaw Pain Symptoms- If you suffer from chronic headaches, you might only need TMJ treatment. TMD headaches, often confused with migraines, require neuromuscular dentistry.

What is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)?

Any time your temporomandibular joints become unhinged or injured in any way, the result is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Any imbalance in your jawbone can cause physical distortions, muscle pain, hearing disorders, and fatigue.

Where are the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) located?

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your skull (temporal) to your jawbone (mandible), hence the term. If you press your fingers to your temples, and slowly open and close your mouth, you will feel the hinges of your TMJ’s moving accordingly. In addition to allowing you to open up and say, “Ahh,” your temporomandibular joints also enable you to move your jawbones from side to side. Your TMJ’s are some of the most complex, sophisticated joints you have in your body, and they are extremely sensitive to even the slightest impairment.

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Telltale symptoms of TMJ/TMD:

Facial pain, in your cheeks, jaws, or ears
Chronic TMD headaches not associated with migraines
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears, buzzing sounds that don’t go away)
Ear pressure
Clicking, cracking, or similar noises while chewing
Teeth grinding/clenching, either at nighttime, during the day, or both
Front teeth that are unnaturally smooth and straight at the edges, with no curves
Locked jaw
Overbite (upper teeth completely cover lower teeth when jaws are closed)
Toothaches while chewing, despite the absence of cavities

What is the best TMJ treatment?

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A competent neuromuscular dentist can provide the best treatment for TMD’s. There are three phases to curing headaches, tinnitus, and other symptoms caused by TMJ. They are:

Pain treatment- ultra-low frequency electrical stimulators gently massage sore muscle tissue in the affected areas. Alternatively, acupuncture or acupressure may be effective, as both utilize the technique of releasing pain-killing endorphins.
Orthopedic realignment- your neuromuscular dentist will design a custom-fit mouthpiece that you will need to wear as instructed. The orthopedic device should fit comfortably, and with time, it will balance your bite, reversing muscular tension and spasms that result from long-term misalignment.
Ongoing TMD therapy- in order to prevent a recurrence of TMD symptoms, your dentist will determine if your require surgery, orthodontia, or jaw reconstruction.