Do you suffer from chronic headaches? You may have a TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joints that connect the jawbone to the skull can cause problems if they are injured. They result in temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) which cause pain in the jaw joint and muscles as well as frequent headaches.
Dr. Greg Reece treats TMJ and chronic headaches in his Charlotte, North Carolina dental office. Dr. Reece will be happy to answer any questions about TMJ treatment or the symptoms of TMJ disorders. Learn more about the causes and signs of these disorders as well as their treatment below.
What Causes TMJ?
The cause of TMJ disorders vary from case to case, but some common causes include:
- Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism)
- Jaw misalignment
- Arthritis
- Stress
- Poor posture
- Teeth or jaw injury
TMJ disorders can manifest in multiple ways, varying from person to person. If you have any of these conditions, you may be more likely to develop a temporomandibular joint disorder than other patients.
Signs of TMJ
There are also several signs to look out for when it comes to TMJ disorders:
- Earaches
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Stiffness in jaw muscles
- Jaw locking
- Pain in the temple area
- Facial pain
If you notice any of these signs, it may be a TMJ disorder. Patients may wake up with jaw soreness or headaches because their symptoms have manifested at night. If you suspect that your facial pain is caused by TMJ, call the Dentistry of the Queen City for comfortable and comprehensive dental treatment. We will help eradicate the source of your problems.
TMJ Pain Treatment in Charlotte, NC
TMJ disorders can be treated with oral appliances. Before treatment, Dr. Reece will review your options with you and assess your teeth and gums to ensure that the chosen option aligns with your budget and goals. Oral appliances are custom-made mouthguards that keep teeth from grinding together.
They can be worn at night to keep teeth protected from further wear and tear caused by bruxism. Mouthguards also alleviate the stress that teeth and clenching have on the jaw and the surrounding muscles.
If you have excessive tooth damage or wear and tear from grinding your teeth as a result of a TMJ disorder, Dr. Reece may recommend cosmetic treatment. Tooth bonding or dental crowns can be used to repair damage and improve the aesthetics of your smile. These durable options cover and protect teeth from further injury.
TMJ Headaches FAQs
Do tooth infections cause headaches?
Tooth infections can cause headaches for many reasons. Tooth infections cause toothaches which commonly lead into migraines and severe headaches. Infections may also cause throbbing in the jaw, which can cause patients to feel like they have a headache.
What relieves a toothache headache?
The best thing to do for a TMJ headache that is to rinse with saltwater. Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide is also known to help swelling and soothe pain. Holding a cold wash cloth against the area that is in pain may help relieve pain as well. Garlic, peppermint tea, and vanilla extract are also known to help soothe headaches stemming from a toothache.
Is it normal to have headaches after dental work?
Many patients may have headaches after having dental work done. Dental procedures may cause strain on muscles in the jaw and face. This can progress into a headache. This should not last more than 24 hours after your dental procedure.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
If you have noticed that you suffer from chronic headaches or any other common symptoms of TMJ disorders, contact the Dentistry of the Queen City. If you are a new patient, call 704.486.8911. Call 704.596.6767 if you are a returning patient. You can also request an appointment online.
Dr. Reece and his team will be happy to help you receive high-quality dental care. They will collaborate with you to find a solution that works for you. If you have any questions, Dr. Reece will be happy to clarify your treatment options as well as signs of TMJ disorders.