Sounds a bit unorthodox, right? Headache treatment from the dentist? But because of a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMJ or TMD, it’s entirely possible.
At Shorewood Family Dental Care, we regularly see patients suffering from the nagging and uncomfortable symptoms of TMJ. Even more than that, we provide a treatment plan that helps them find relief from the symptoms affecting their lives.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to your chronic headaches and associated symptoms of TMJ, we’re ready to help! In the meantime, learn more about TMJ and headache treatment at our Shorewood, IL dentist office.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
Your temporomandibular joint is the joint on each side of your head that attaches your jaw to the bottom of your skull. The muscles near the joint allow you to open and close your mouth. They’re responsible for actions like talking, chewing, and much more. If a problem arises causing misalignment, soreness, or pain in your temporomandibular joint, it’s known as temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD.
The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint that moves in many directions. If TMD occurs, it can have a profound effect on your life and everyday activities.
Approximately 15% of adults have TMD, most of whom are between the ages of 20 and 40. TMD occurs more often in women than in men
Symptoms of TMJ/TMD
Not everyone experiences TMD differently and with such a wide array of symptoms, it can be a frustrating condition to deal with. The most common symptoms of TMJ/TMD include:
- Jaw muscle pain.
- Neck and shoulder pain.
- Jaw muscle stiffness.
- Chronic headaches.
- Limited jaw movement.
- Lock-jaw.
- Painful clicking or popping of the jaw when you open and close your mouth.
- Dizziness.
- Vision problems.
- An “off” feeling bite.
What Causes TMD?
There are multiple potential reasons of what causes headaches of TMJ/TMD. Sometimes we may not be able to pinpoint a specific cause. But in a lot of cases, causes of the condition include:
- Autoimmune disease.
- Jaw injuries.
- Infections.
- Dental procedures.
- Arthritis.
If you’re not sure what brought on your symptoms, don’t worry. We’ll still be able to learn enough about your condition during your consultation to find a treatment that will work for you.
Treat Your TMJ Symptoms At The Dentist
Speaking of treatments, we really can treat your symptoms right here at our Shorewood, IL dentist office. We have the experience, knowledge, and training necessary for the proper TMJ/TMD treatment in as little time as possible. But what does treatment for this particular condition usually look like?
In some cases, headache treatment with at-home remedies and therapies is possible if the symptoms are mild enough. You may find relief by avoiding hard or chewy foods and avoiding extreme jaw movements. We may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication to relieve inflammation in the joint. Ice and heat can also work well to relieve discomfort and irritation.
For other patients, we may recommend a custom mouthguard for you to wear at night. This night guard prevents holds your jaw in the correct position and prevents teeth grinding, which can contribute to symptoms of TMJ.
If you’re still struggling with symptoms, it may be time to consider surgery. However, we will work hard to try to find a remedy that works for you without surgery.
Headache Treatment & Symptom Relief In Shorewood, IL
We strongly encourage you to call us and learn more about how we can help with handling headaches and other symptoms right here in our office. If your headaches are the result of TMJ/TMD or a similar jaw-related condition, we will work hard to make you feel better.
To learn more about TMJ/TMD relief and headache treatment, call Shorewood Family Dental Care at (815) 725-5991 to schedule a consultation. Don’t wait another day to call! We look forward to hearing from you!
