TMD and Migraine

Stop suffering through the day

TMD or, Temporomandibular Disorder, is a broad term for pain or discomfort associated with the TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint.  Sometimes pain can be caused from systemic conditions such as arthritis, other times it can be due to a problem with the disc in the joint itself. Other times it can be caused by misaligned teeth or muscle derangement.  The majority of the time, the pain is caused by a combination of  these factors.  In cases where the pain is caused from muscle derangement, there are localized sources of pain called trigger points.  Often, patients don't even know a trigger point exists until the muscle contracts just right and then suddenly, everything hurts. 

Signs that your head and neck pain may be related to muscle pain

• Radiating pain that shoots up and back to your ear(s)

• Ringing in your ears

• Ear pain in the absence of an ear infection

• History of trauma to head and neck

• Tooth pain with no cavities or cracks

• Sensation of pain or pressure around eyes

• Shooting pain that starts in the back of neck and shoots to forehead

• History of Migraines

• Clench teeth at night and/or during the day

• Sleep apnea

• Facial pain with unknown origin

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The jaw joint is the only joint in your entire body that has two hinges that move together (left and right side).   Unlike the arm or leg, it is very challenging to rest the jaw.  As a result, chronic injury can persist for years if left untreated.   

Migraine

Consequently, a majority of patients that we see at Jones Family Dental who suffer from TMD or head and neck pain also have frequent headaches and/or migraines.  This connection is not a coincidence.  Not all migraines are due to muscle derangement, but is one of the main causes of migraine. 

Treatment

There are several forms of treatment for TMD and migraines including:  use of an oral appliance such as a hard splint, orthodontics, massage, physical therapy, medication and even, botulinum toxin.  Every patient is different and it is very important that Dr. Jones conduct a full evaluation of your head and neck before recommending what treatment is right for you. If you are suffering from head and neck pain and are having trouble finding a solution, call us today for a consultation.  Stop letting pain control your life.

Call today for a consultation