Are you one of the millions of people in the United States suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)? Specific causes of this chronic condition of jaw joint inflammation are sometimes difficult to pinpoint. However, there’s no denying how detrimental the symptoms are to overall quality of life. One of the most commonly reported TMJ symptoms which Houston dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero hears about from patients is headaches. Everyone has a tension headache from time to time, usually easily remedied by a little over-the-counter pain medication. Persistent, pervasive headaches, however (such as migraines) can stop your life cold and have you unable to get out of bed. If your TMJs are to blame, treatment will need to answer to that inflammation and jaw clenching if you want headaches to cease.
Defining TMJ Disorder
Headaches which begin from TMD often mimic other types of headaches (sinus, tension, or migraines). Properly diagnosing this disorder is difficult in some cases because of the many ways that TMJ pain can radiate to other seemingly unrelated parts of your body. A TMJ headache is triggered by a number of different things such as:
- Clenching
- Jaw Injury
- Grinding Teeth
- Hormonal Fluctuations
Relieving TMJ Related Headaches
Dr. Gennero has the experience to recognize and treat TMJ issues. Sometimes, wear on your teeth or jaw tells the story. If headaches are your main symptom, you may trigger your brain pain through teeth grinding (bruxism). Custom nightguards help keep your jaw in place so you don’t grind and clench while you sleep or when you are feeling stress. Reduce stress levels, avoid hard-to-chew foods, don’t chomp on ice, and cut out gum chewing. Apply cold compresses to a sore jaw, alternating with heat. If you feel a headache coming on, pain medications approved by your general physician should be taken as soon as possible. Once your headache is full blown, it may take longer for your body to respond to pain killers. Try to give yourself a little down time to rest in a dark room and allow your headache to pass. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult with Dr. Gennero.
Visit your Houston Dentist
If you can’t find relief from your chronic headaches and feel they may be caused by TMJ disorder, contact our Houston dental office at (281) 578-6200.
