The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a vital role in jaw movement, allowing for actions like biting, chewing, and speaking. While many people don’t think much about these movements until they experience jaw pain, it’s worth noting that migraines might be related to TMJ disorder. The good news is that neither migraines nor TMJ dysfunction have to be chronic problems you just put up with. Read on to learn more about the connection between migraines and TMJ dysfunction.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull on both sides of your head. Problems with this joint can lead to various issues. These issues, collectively known as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorders), involve the TMJ and the muscles that control facial movements. While the exact causes of TMJ disorders aren’t always clear, they’re often linked to factors such as:
- Teeth grinding
- Stress
- Arthritis
- Irregularities in your bite
8 Signs of TMJ
Recognizing the signs of TMJ can help you get timely treatment. There are several common symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, including:
- Popping or clicking sounds when moving your jaw
- Soreness is then neck and shoulders
- Jaw pain, stiffness, and tenderness
- A sensation of fullness in the ears
- Frequent head and earaches
- Limited jaw movement
- Tinnitus (ear ringing)
- Bite problems
Are Migraines and TMJ Disorder Connected?
You might wonder about the link between jaw soreness and severe symptoms like migraines. When you clench or grind your teeth, or have a misaligned bite due to TMJ problems, it can add pressure to the surrounding jaw muscles, leading to tension. This tension can spread to nearby tissues and throughout the head, causing pain in different areas.
Sometimes, this pressure can even trigger migraines. Recent studies have found that people with chronic migraines are three times more likely to have TMJ disorder symptoms. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek the right treatment to address these issues effectively.
How Can I Treat TMJ Disorder?
The great news is that TMJ disorder can be effectively managed with help from a sleep dentist. While pain medication might provide temporary relief from headaches or jaw pain, it doesn’t address the underlying issue.
However, your dentist can examine your mouth thoroughly and provide a solution, such as oral appliance therapy. This treatment involves wearing custom-made night guards that gradually improve the alignment of your jaw while you sleep, promoting better health.
Migraines can disrupt your daily life and make it hard to relax. If you suspect TMJ disorder is the cause, seeking treatment is important. It can help you get the care you need to address the issue effectively.
About the Practice
Dr. Harvey Jay Mahler leads the dedicated team at Smile 312 Chicago’s Premier Dentist, a trusted dental practice in Chicago known for delivering exceptional patient experiences. With a commitment to excellence, Dr. Mahler offers a comprehensive range of treatments to help patients overcome TMJ disorder. By addressing this condition, individuals can enjoy restful sleep, quality time with loved ones, and migraine prevention. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahler and the Smile 312 Chicago’s Premier Dentist team or to learn more about treating TMJ disorder, contact their office at (312) 263-5262 or visit their website.