If you suffer from chronic headaches, a dentist may be the last person you think you need to see. However, there are two common oral health issues that can lead to persistent headaches: TMJ disorder and bruxism. With minimally invasive treatment, including custom-made oral appliances, we can address these jaw joint issues and help stop migraines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headaches and TMJ/Bruxism
Question: How does TMJ lead to headaches?
Answer: Our temporomandibular joints connect the jaw to the skull and allow the range of motion needed to eat and speak. However, when the jaw joints undergo excessive strain, patients may have trouble fully opening and closing their mouths. Common symptoms of TMJ disorder will include migraines, as well as a popping/clicking in the jaw and facial pain.
Question: Will grinding my teeth cause head pain?
Answer: Yes. Bruxism, which involves routine teeth grinding and jaw clenching, can wear down tooth enamel, crack/chip teeth, and lead to serious oral health concerns. Symptoms of bruxism include headaches, jaw pain, toothaches, and pain in the neck and face.
Question: How do we stop jaw joint strain?
Answer: Often the strain can be eased with an oral appliance. Worn at night, the appliance repositions the jaw to ease stress. Other methods of stopping TMJ disorder include orthodontics and restorations.
Question: What can I do to prevent further teeth grinding?
Answer: We may recommend reducing stress in your day-to-day life, as well as an oral appliance to provide a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, limiting damage.
If you have any questions about treating bruxism and TMJ disorder, or if you have persistent migraines, then give us a call today. We can perform a diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
ABOUT YOUR ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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