TMJ Headaches

TMJ Headaches is a common TMJ syndrome. Sometimes headaches can be a direct result of TMJ disorders, or other times they can be secondary. The typical headache that occurs with TMJ is a tight, dull aching headache. It is most commonly on one side, but can be on both. Normally, it is worse on the side where the TMJ is worse. The headache is aggravated by jaw movement and relieves with jaw relaxation. It also is usually associated with tenderness of the jaw and nearby muscles.

Tmj Headache

TMJ Headache contrast to Migraines

In contrast, migraines are more throbbing and sharp. They also can be associated with many funny symptoms affecting sensation and vision. While TMJ disorders can make migraines more common in occurrence, they do not directly cause migraines. 

The general problem with headaches is their features are not very specific for any one condition. Therefore, any headache can result some a serious condition. If you have other TMJ features, and the headache is typical for TMJ, then the diagnosis of its cause is easier to be called TMJ Headache. However, if other TMJ symptoms are absent or the headache is unusual for TMJ, investigation to assess other conditions in recommended.

How Can We Help You To Diagnose TMJ Headache.

The symptoms of TMJ disorders depend on the severity and cause of your condition. The most common symptom of TMJ disorders is pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles.

According to 2021 researchTrusted Source, other symptoms typically associated with these disorders include:

  • pain that can be felt in the face or neck
  • stiffness in the muscles of the jaw
  • limited movement of the jaw
  • locking of the jaw
  • clicking or popping sound from the TMJ site
  • dental issues, such as the wearing down of teeth
  • tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
  • vertigo
  • headaches
  • shift in the jaw, changing the way that the upper and lower teeth align (called malocclusion)

Symptoms of TMJ headaches can range from jaw pain, head and neck aches, tmj popping, grating or clicking. At Eternal Smiles we use treatments that can range from night guards to muscle relaxers.

Dr Singh has been trained to analyse the problem in Florida, America.  A thorough joint examination reveals the problem.

Ann had TMJ headache problems.  Her dentist did not understand her bite.  After 3 visits with Dr Singh she recovered and now able to enjoy her foods.

 

“I had headaches and sore shoulders for years. The night guard has helped wonders and for the first time in years. I no longer wake up with a headache or discomfort in my front teeth. I am really impressed with the time and attention Dr Singh took to make it comfortable and the after care given to ensure it remains correct and comfortable.”                                                                                               Sally Holgate

Jaw joint conditon

Dr Singh has extensive training in treating problems associated with the jaw joint and bite, or what we call ‘Temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorders’. These come in many forms and the symptoms can include:

  • Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth.
  • Pain in the chewing muscles or jaw joint, especially first thing in the morning or in the evening after a stressful day.
  • Soreness in the jaw.
  • Difficulty opening or closing the mouth or locking of the jaw.
  • Jaw muscle stiffness.
  • Headaches or radiating pain in the face, shoulders and neck.
  • Ringing in the ears.
  • A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.
  • Can be mistaken for chronic toothache.

What causes it?

These problems have many contributing factors such as stress and grinding of teeth. 

How is it treated?

Dr Singh is fully trained to diagnose these problems and treat them –He uses ‘TMJ therapy’ and bite adjustment. The therapy involves wearing a specialised (Hard Night guard) stabilisation splint. This is carefully fabricated and adjusted to relax the chewing muscles and place the jaw joint in a comfortable position to allow it to heal properly.

Once the pain has been resolved over a period of 3-6 months, certain restorative treatment may be required to correct the bite.

 

“My TMJ joints were sore and the side of my face were painful the last few  months.  Dr Singh advised that I wear a night guard to resolve my TMJ bite problem.  It prevented me from wearing down due to my grinding and help my jaw joints recover. The treatment and care was great. Thank you for helping sore jaw   better.”

                                                    Gary Dickenson

In summary, careful planning and analysis will allow the treatment to be designed around your individual needs.

The facial muscles and jaw joints are all part of a system that is controlled by the brain. Because Dr Singh has a detailed understanding of this system, he can detect specific reasons that cause harmful bite pattern and head and neck pain.

When muscles and joints do not work properly, the muscles will often tire. The tiredness can become part of a cycle that results in tissue damage, pain, muscle tenderness and spasm.

Although accidents involving injuries to the jaw, head, or neck, or diseases such as arthritis may result in some bite problems, Using detailed bite evaluation we can diagnose any discrepancies with your bite. We also use it to get the accuracy of newly fitted restorations 100% correct to make your restorations last longer.

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