Is Your Jaw Giving You a Headache?

It is believed that 45 million Americans have chronic headaches, and the economic costs due to job absenteeism, lost production, and medical expenses are estimated to be as high as $50 billion annually.

Approximately 35 million people also suffer from TMJ problems known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), caused by an imbalanced bite. When the joint causes pressure to be put on the nerves, muscles, and blood vessels that pass near the head, pain can result. “If you suffer from continual headaches or migraines, especially first thing in the morning, pain behind your eyes, jaw clenching or teeth grinding, sinus pains, and pains in the neck or shoulders, you should consider booking an appointment with your dentist, as well as a doctor, as soon as possible,” says Willey.

Many people have imperfect dental occlusion yet never show symptoms as they adjust to their problem. For those who do suffer, teeth and gums may be affected, and instead of headaches, you may encounter broken teeth, fillings, loose teeth, and toothaches with no apparent cause. If you have any of these problems, see a dentist right away.

Patients suffering from these symptoms usually consult their primary care physician first and then are reare then referred to an ENT or neurologist, depending ontoms. If the symptoms persist, the specialists may then refer them to a dentist to rule out jaw problems associated with TMD.

More and more physicians are realizing the benefits of dental treatment for TMD. “We have many ENTs and neurologists who have referred their patients to us when their symptoms showed signs of TMD,” says Willey.

Our sleep specialists explain that simply normalizing the bite with a custom-fitted mouth appliance resembling an athletic mouthguard can help many headache sufferers. These non-invasive appliances, called orthotics, are created to find the true rest position for the jaw, which promotes healing and maintains the new, corrected bite position. “While the orthotic will temporarily stabilize the jaw, permanent stabilization may be necessary,” says Costaras. Options may include wearing a long-term orthotic, providing orthodontic treatment, placing crowns or veneers on the affected teeth, or creating a neuromuscular denture.

In some cases, if symptoms persist, additional treatments such as physical therapy or stress management techniques may be recommended to further alleviate muscle tension and improve jaw function. Our sleep specialists work closely with each patient to determine the best approach, ensuring a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs. Long-term care may also involve follow-up visits to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the orthotic or other treatments. At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, we prioritize patient comfort and aim to provide lasting relief, helping you achieve optimal jaw health and reduce headaches for improved daily functioning.

TMJ disorders can cause both jaw pain and frequent headaches by affecting the temporomandibular joint that connects your jaw to your skull. This condition often causes tension in the jaw muscles, leading to discomfort that can radiate into your head. Teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or stress may worsen these symptoms. Misalignment or injury to the jaw joint can also contribute to discomfort that affects your daily life. If you’re experiencing jaw pain and persistent headaches, our expert team at Koala Center for Sleep Disorders in Peoria, IL, specializes in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. We provide personalized treatment plans that target both jaw pain and headaches, offering lasting relief and comfort.

In addition to jaw pain and headaches, TMJ disorders can also cause difficulty in chewing, ear pain, and even dizziness. Many patients find that their symptoms worsen during times of stress or after long periods of jaw strain. Identifying the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder is crucial to finding the right treatment. At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, we take a comprehensive approach to treatment, starting with a thorough evaluation to understand your unique symptoms and lifestyle. With our expertise, we offer effective solutions such as custom mouthguards, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques, designed to provide long-term relief and help you regain control over your comfort.

At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders in Peoria, IL, we offer a range of effective treatments for jaw-related headaches caused by TMJ disorders. Our approach includes custom oral appliances such as night guards that help alleviate teeth grinding and jaw clenching during sleep. In addition, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes to reduce strain on your jaw muscles and prevent future headaches. By addressing the root cause of your symptoms, we focus on providing long-term relief and improving your quality of life. Our dedicated team helps you find a treatment plan that works for you.

Additionally, we may suggest posture correction exercises and relaxation techniques to help reduce the muscle tension that often contributes to TMJ disorders. Stress management plays a vital role, as emotional stress can exacerbate jaw clenching and contribute to recurring headaches. Our team also emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper jaw alignment, which can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent future flare-ups. For patients with severe symptoms, advanced treatments such as Botox injections or splint therapy may be considered to provide additional relief. At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, we dedicate ourselves to offering personalized care that helps you achieve lasting comfort and restore a pain-free lifestyle. For more information, contact us today or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI.