Do you experience frequent migraines? This can make it challenging, or even impossible to complete normal daily tasks. While there are many different causes of migraines, one common one that is often overlooks is TMJ disorder. Continue reading to learn more about TMJ disorder (TMD), its connection to migraines, and what you can do to prevent them from occurring.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. It helps you to open your mouth to speak and chew your food. However, when this joint isn’t working properly, it can lead to popping, pain, discomfort, and various other symptoms. It is estimated that between 5% and 12% of adults have this dysfunction, and women are twice as likely to develop it.
How Does TMJ Disorder Result in Migraines?
TMJ disorder can cause pain that spreads to your ears, neck, and head. However, for some patients, TMJ disorder can result in migraine headaches. This is even more likely if you have history of migraines. These migraines are often described as severe, throbbing, and stronger on one side of the head. They can also be followed by nausea or vomiting.
How Can TMJ Disorder Be Addressed?
The good news is that there are various ways that you can reduce symptoms of TMJ disorder. Here are some of the ways that you can see relief.
- Reduce Stress: A common response to stress is to clench the teeth together and sometimes grind them. Many people don’t even notice that they are doing it. The problem is that this can put increased pressure on the jaw, leading to additional discomfort and headaches. Try using stress relieving techniques to relax your jaw, like meditating.
- Reduce Bad Habits: There are certain bad habits that can worsen TMJ disorder symptoms. They include nail biting, chewing the cheeks and lips, and resting your jaw in your hand. Take note of these habits and how often you do them.
- Use Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers and/or cold/hot compresses can help to relieve some of the pain caused by TMJ disorder.
- Seek TMJ Treatment: If your TMD symptoms are chronic and not relieved by at-home methods, you should seek help from a professional. This way, you can discuss your symptoms and put together a treatment plan that’s ideal for you.
Migraines are quite a headache to deal with, and TMJ disorder could be the cause behind them. By using the tips listed above and seeking treatment, you can work toward getting some relief.
About the Author
Dr. Cedric Chenet earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Howard University in Washington DC. He served in the US Air Force as a dental officer and was deployed to many locations, including Japan, South Korea, Egypt, Honduras, Peru, El Salvador, Saudi Arabia, Alaska, and Haiti. He offers several TMJ treatment options to help patients get relief from their TMD. To learn more about TMJ treatment or to schedule an appointment at his office in Melbourne, visit his website or call (321) 253-3136.