The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) allows you to perform various movements crucial to your daily life. It connects your lower jaw to your skull on either side of your face, so you can open and close your mouth. Many people don’t think twice about these movements, but you suffer from jaw pain. Biting, chewing, or yawning can be painful; however, those aren’t the only challenges you face. Migraines and TMJ go together. You don’t have to live with chronic jaw pain or reoccurring migraines. Your dentist has the solutions you need to take control of your quality of life.
TMD Linked to Migraines
The onset of a migraine interrupts your plans for the day quickly. If you have more than 15 per month, you are 3 times more likely to experience severe TMD symptoms. According to Brazilian researchers, 30% of the adult population have some degree of pain when making normal jaw movements, as well as other signs of the disorder, including:
- Clicking, popping, or grating sound when opening and closing the mouth
- Jaw locking in an opened or closed position
- Limited jaw movements
- Facial or dental pain
- Neck pain
- Ringing in the ears
- Grinding or clenching the teeth
- Fatigue
- Migraines
Various factors contribute to a TMD, but stress and muscle overload are common culprits. Researchers in Brazil performed a controlled study involving women with chronic and episodic migraines. They found 80% of the participants also had TMD symptoms.
While more research is needed, it’s believed the connection between the two conditions has to do with nociceptors. The nerve endings process pain to respond to harmful or noxious stimuli. Migraines are known to increase pain sensitivity, potentially making TMD symptoms more severe. However, TMJ dysfunction can contribute to migraines, too. It causes constant nociceptive input, which can lead to an abnormal pain process.
Stop Living with Reoccurring Pain
Don’t plan your life around migraines or jaw pain. Your dentist will examine your jaw using advanced technology to diagnose the cause of your TMD. After they’ve confirmed the condition, they’ll create a personalized plan with TMJ therapy. Every situation differs, so no two treatment plans are identical. Your dentist may recommend multiple solutions, such as:
- Stress-relieving and home exercises
- Pain management or muscle relaxants
- Oral appliance or splint
- Orthodontics
- Injections
Enjoy Lasting Relief
Don’t let anxiety about migraines and jaw pain stop you from enjoying your life to the fullest. You can benefit from lasting relief with the help of a trusted TMJ/TMD dentist. Schedule your consultation for TMJ therapy today.
About Dr. West
Dr. West has over 30 years of experience in dental care, helping her patients achieve optimal oral health and wellness by treating chronic jaw pain. After earning her dental degree from the University of Southern California Dental School, her focus turned to dental sleep medicine and neuromuscular dentistry. She is a proud member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you’re ready to treat your TMJ pain, contact our office today.