What is the connection between TMJ and headaches. How does jaw clenching contribute to migraines. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related head pain. How can you prevent TMJ headaches through lifestyle changes and exercises.

Understanding the TMJ-Headache Connection

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a crucial role in our daily activities, allowing us to speak, eat, and express ourselves. However, when this joint experiences issues, it can lead to a range of problems, including debilitating headaches. To fully grasp the link between TMJ and headaches, it’s essential to understand the anatomy and function of this important joint.

What is the TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It’s located on both sides of your head, just in front of your ears. This joint allows for the complex movements required for chewing, speaking, and yawning. The TMJ is supported by various muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all working together to facilitate smooth jaw movement.

How does TMJ dysfunction lead to headaches?

TMJ disorders (TMD) can cause tension in the muscles surrounding the joint, which can radiate to other areas of the head and face. This tension can trigger headaches, including migraines. When the jaw muscles become overworked or strained, they can cause pain that travels to the temples, forehead, and even the neck and shoulders.

• Muscle tension: Clenching or grinding teeth can overwork jaw muscles, leading to tension headaches.
• Nerve compression: TMJ issues can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain that radiates to the head.
• Referred pain: Pain originating in the jaw joint can be felt in other areas of the head due to shared nerve pathways.

Common Causes of TMJ-Related Headaches

Understanding the root causes of TMJ-related headaches is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. Several factors can contribute to the development of these headaches, often working in combination to exacerbate symptoms.

Stress and Jaw Clenching

One of the primary culprits behind TMJ headaches is stress-induced jaw clenching. Many people unknowingly clench their jaws or grind their teeth when under stress, a condition known as bruxism. This constant tension in the jaw muscles can lead to pain and headaches.

Misalignment of the Jaw

Structural issues with the jaw, such as misalignment or an uneven bite, can put extra strain on the TMJ. This imbalance can cause the muscles to work harder, leading to fatigue and pain that may manifest as headaches.

Injuries and Trauma

Physical trauma to the jaw or surrounding areas can damage the TMJ or its supporting structures. This can result in ongoing pain and dysfunction, potentially triggering headaches.

Arthritis

Inflammatory conditions like arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing pain and reducing mobility. The inflammation and discomfort in the joint can contribute to the development of headaches.

Recognizing TMJ Headache Symptoms

Identifying TMJ-related headaches is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While symptoms can vary from person to person, there are several common signs that may indicate your headache is linked to TMJ issues.

Characteristic Pain Patterns

TMJ headaches often present with specific pain patterns that can help distinguish them from other types of headaches:

• Pain in the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes
• Dull, aching pain that may be more intense on one side
• Pain that worsens when chewing, yawning, or talking
• Tenderness in the jaw muscles

Associated Symptoms

In addition to headache pain, TMJ disorders can cause a range of related symptoms:

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Difficulty or pain when chewing
• Limited range of motion in the jaw
• Ear pain or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Neck and shoulder pain

Diagnosing TMJ Headaches

Accurately diagnosing TMJ headaches is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Healthcare professionals use a combination of methods to determine if TMJ issues are the source of a patient’s headaches.

Medical History and Physical Examination

The diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough review of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. The healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, pain patterns, and any factors that may exacerbate the pain. They will also examine the jaw’s range of motion and listen for any abnormal sounds during movement.

Imaging Tests

In some cases, imaging tests may be necessary to get a clearer picture of the TMJ and surrounding structures. These may include:

• X-rays: To examine the bones and alignment of the jaw
• CT scans: For more detailed images of the bones in the joint
• MRI: To assess the soft tissues, including muscles and cartilage

Specialized Tests

Additional tests may be conducted to evaluate jaw function and identify specific issues:

• Electromyography (EMG): Measures muscle activity in the jaw
• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to directly visualize the joint

Treatment Options for TMJ Headaches

Managing TMJ headaches often requires a multifaceted approach, combining various treatments to address both symptoms and underlying causes. The most effective treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs.

Conservative Treatments

For many people, conservative treatments can provide significant relief from TMJ headaches:

• Rest and stress reduction techniques
• Application of heat or cold packs
• Gentle jaw exercises and stretches
• Avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Using over-the-counter pain relievers

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Physical therapy can be highly effective in treating TMJ headaches. A trained therapist can teach specific exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Some helpful exercises include:

1. Jaw relaxation: Gently massaging the jaw muscles to reduce tension
2. Chin tucks: Aligning the head and neck to improve posture
3. Resisted mouth opening: Using gentle resistance to strengthen jaw muscles

Dental Interventions

Dentists specializing in TMJ disorders may recommend:

• Oral appliances or night guards to prevent teeth grinding
• Orthodontic treatments to correct bite issues
• Botox injections to relax overactive jaw muscles

Medical Treatments

In some cases, more advanced medical interventions may be necessary:

• Prescription pain medications or muscle relaxants
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive procedure to flush out the joint

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent TMJ Headaches

Preventing TMJ headaches often involves making certain lifestyle modifications to reduce stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. By incorporating these changes, many people can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of their headaches.

Stress Management Techniques

Since stress is a major contributor to jaw clenching and TMJ issues, managing stress is crucial. Effective stress-reduction methods include:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or tai chi
• Adequate sleep and rest

Dietary Adjustments

Certain dietary changes can help reduce strain on the TMJ:

• Avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Cutting food into smaller pieces
• Limiting caffeine intake to reduce muscle tension
• Staying hydrated to support overall joint health

Posture Improvement

Poor posture can contribute to TMJ issues and related headaches. Tips for improving posture include:

• Maintaining proper alignment while sitting and standing
• Using ergonomic furniture and equipment
• Taking regular breaks to stretch and move during prolonged periods of sitting

When to Seek Professional Help

While many TMJ headaches can be managed with self-care and lifestyle changes, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. Understanding when to seek help can prevent the condition from worsening and ensure you receive appropriate treatment.

Signs That Require Medical Attention

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Severe headaches that interfere with daily activities
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw accompanied by pain
• Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together

Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider

Depending on your symptoms and their severity, you may need to consult different specialists:

• Dentist: For issues related to teeth grinding or misalignment
• TMJ specialist: For comprehensive evaluation and treatment of TMJ disorders
• Neurologist: If migraines or other neurological issues are suspected
• Physical therapist: For exercises and manual therapy to improve jaw function

By understanding the connection between TMJ and headaches, recognizing symptoms, and implementing appropriate treatments and lifestyle changes, many people can find relief from TMJ-related head pain. Remember that each case is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Patience and persistence in finding the right combination of treatments can lead to significant improvements in quality of life for those suffering from TMJ headaches.

Your Jaw May Be to Blame for Your Migraine Headaches – Cleveland Clinic

Although a migraine is severe to moderate pain that you feel at the top or side of your head, the trouble may actually start at the bottom of your skull.

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Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. Your TMJ allows you to talk, chew and yawn. But the joint’s supporting muscles also can be the source of your migraines, says chiropractor Andrew Bang, DC.

A number of the TMJ muscles, which are located underneath the jaw and in the cheeks, and on the top and sides of the head, may contribute to the pain, Dr. Bang says.

“The headache and migraine pain could generate from the muscles that move your jaw,” Dr. Bang says.

Here’s how it happens: Your jaw muscles tighten when you grind or clench your teeth – or do things such as chew gum. The pain from your jaw created by the clenching then travels to other places in the skull, causing headaches or, in severe cases, migraines. You may also experience toothaches, earaches or shoulder pain.

Is that headache a migraine?

A migraine is a headache that tends to happen repeatedly. It can cause moderate to severe pain if left untreated. More than 10 percent of the U.S. population – including children – suffers from migraines.

People often experience a migraine as a throbbing pain. The pain may occur on one side of the head only, but may be felt on both sides. Light, sounds, smells, stress, activity or hormonal changes can trigger the pain.

A migraine may cause you to become temporarily sensitive to light, sound and smell and can make you feel nauseous. Physical activity also can aggravate a migraine. Some people experience visual or sensory changes, called auras, before, during or after the headache.

Tips to ease headache, migraine pain

Combining chiropractic treatment with medication often provides relief for migraine pain, Dr. Bang says. Your physician or neurologist can prescribe medications to help manage migraine symptoms.

A chiropractor can use massage techniques to stretch your tight jaw muscles, Dr. Bang says. In other instances, a chiropractor might recommend physical therapy to do at home. Basic stretches can slow the progression of a headache and prevent it from becoming a full-blown migraine.

Three other areas of the body can contribute to migraine pain when they become tight or tense: the shoulders, the neck and the head. A chiropractor may use chiropractic manipulation when vertebrae in the upper spine or head are misaligned. Gentle realignment that ensures a good range of motion  sometimes can give quick migraine relief.

If you think your TMJ is causing headaches, try these tips from Dr. Bang:

• Chew mints instead of gum.
• Gently massage your jaw muscles.
• Stretch your neck throughout the day.

TMJ Headache : Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

By Amy Burkhart MD, RD

How is the temporomandibular joint, TMJ for short, associated with headaches? The connection is strong, and stress is contributing. Let’s cover what the TMJ is, its relationship to headaches, provide samples of TMJ exercises, and how to find TMJ headache relief.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint that allows one’s mouth to open and close. It is integrally involved in talking, drinking, chewing, laughing, and singing in the shower!  It is one of the most active joints in the body.

Most people don’t notice the jaw muscles, bones, and tendons, working in coordination until something goes wrong.

Jaw clenching, a common cause of TMJ pain, is highly correlated with stress. Clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism) are often not consciously noticed by people and can happen all day and night.

The pain associated with TMJ can be debilitating. The types/location of pain resulting from the TMJ vary, but headaches are a common endpoint of TMJ disorders.

TMJ is the more common term but TMD is the official terminology

Temporomandibular disorders, abbreviated TMD, refer to any dysfunction in the joint itself. TMJ is the abbreviation for the joint itself. The terms TMJ and TMD are often used interchangeably.

The correct medical terminology for problems at the joint is TMD. Because the term most familiar to readers is TMJ,  I will use “TMJ”  in this article. But your doctor may use the term TMD.

The causes of TMJ pain and TMD can be complicated. All joints are constructed with bone, muscles, and tendons. Being free from pain is dependent on all these components working correctly and eliminating inflammation.  Issues with any part of the mechanics can result in problems.

These behaviors or factors put you at risk for TMJ disorders

• Teeth grinding
• Injury
• Structural changes such as missing teeth or improper alignment of dental appliances, crowns, etc.
• Recent dental work-holding mouth open for prolonged periods
• Emotional factors (stress, anxiety, depression)
• A learned response to pain
• Nutritional deficiencies ( Ca, Mag, Vitamin D)
• Food sensitivities
• Excessive estrogen (1, 2).
• A pandemic ( due to stress, increased computer use) * (3)
• Infection
• Arthritis/inflammation
• An overbite
• Certain autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis (4).

*An increasingly common reason for TMJ pain is a strained head position while using a computer for prolonged periods. The strained ergonomics of holding your head too high or low may be one reason for the rise in TMJ disorders seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. And the added stress is not helping.

Stress ( more teeth grinding) + Prolonged Computer Use = ↑ risk for TMJ problems

Headaches are a common symptom of TMJ dysfunction

TMJ headaches may feel like a tension headache, but headache symptoms vary from person to person. Pain often results from tight neck muscles in the neck or jaw due to grinding or may be referred from the jaw itself. Head position, as mentioned above, may also play a role.

The timing of the headache depends on the cause. If grinding is the underlying reason, the headache may begin or worsen in the middle of the night or morning. If it is due to computer use and head position, it will increase as the day goes on. If inflammation is the culprit , timing would depend on the reason for the inflammation.

TMJ headache relief and treatment

Stress Management

Stress management is often a key component of treatment. Under stress, tension is held in the body, including the jaw muscles. Clenching the jaw throughout the day or grinding teeth at night may contribute to continued TMJ headaches (5). Addressing stress can help someone find TMJ headache relief.

Like any other muscle pain, medications and an ice pack or heat may offer TMJ headache relief. Prevention of recurring TMJ pain lies in seeking and addressing the root cause whenever possible.

Acupuncture

The research using acupuncture for TMJ relief is limited but encouraging. Acupuncture has been used for TMJ pain of various root causes, with benefits seen in as little as two visits (6). Acupuncture treatment can reduce pain and swelling by increasing blood circulation to the TMJ muscles (7).

Physical therapy

Physical therapists are highly trained practitioners who care for a wide range of conditions. A physical therapist can help by teaching exercises to stretch and strengthen the jaw. It is best to find a specialist. A general physical therapist may not have significant experience with TMJ disorders.

To find a specialist: Physical Therapists who specialize in TMJ disorders

Dental and orthodontic treatments

Dentists and orthodontists do evaluations for the cause of TMJ problems. They also provide treatment. Evaluation typically involves specialized X-rays and physical assessments. They can also help realign the jaw if muscle tightness has caused misalignment.

They may also make/fit a mouthguard to help with your TMJ pain. Mouthguards help prevent teeth grinding while you sleep but do not always alleviate all symptoms.

There are several types of guards, so a dentist may try more than one before finding the best fit to relieve pain. Custom-made guards are typically most effective but can be expensive. Particular health insurance plans will cover the cost. Check with your provider to determine your coverage.

When possible, seek out a dentist specifically trained to treat TMJ disorders. Dentists specializing in orofacial pain typically treat TMJ disorders.

Osteopathic Doctors Specializing In Osteopathic Manipulation

Osteopathic doctors  (DO) can do specific training in manipulation techniques to treat TMJ. Results can be incredible. Find an osteopath near me. Not all osteopaths train in manipulation for TMJ, so you will have to ask (8).

Massage therapy or chiropractic care

If your TMJ pain is caused by muscle tightness, you may find relief working with a massage therapist or chiropractor. Tight muscles in the neck and shoulders might be contributing to symptoms. A massage can help reduce stress and loosen tense muscles.

TMJ exercises for TMJ symptom relief

TMJ exercises can relieve symptoms and may reduce the recurrence of TMJ pain and TMJ headaches.

Your TMJ specialist can work with you to create a treatment plan to find TMJ headache relief. Exercises are often a key component of treatment and with persistence and regular practice can provide significant relief.

TMJ exercises stretch and relax the jaw, may reduce clicking and improve range of motion.

There are multiple videos for TMJ exercises available. See Bob and Brad’s YouTube video of TMJ exercises below. They have a great channel for different physical therapy exercises. This will get you started!

If possible, seek out a TMJ specialist

TMJ can be managed by doctors, dentists, neurologists, ENT doctors, and integrative/holistic TMJ specialists. A quick online search can find the closest practitioner.

If you are struggling with TMJ headaches, I hope that you feel better soon. Find a practitioner who has experience with successfully treating those with TMD so that you may find an effective treatment as quickly as possible.

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What is causing my ear and jaw pain?

Have you been experiencing pain in your ear or jaw? This pain can present as a mild ache, but it can also cause intense pain. Unfortunately, though, there are a number of conditions that can be contributing to your ear and jaw pain–from infections and injuries to joint problems. To help you get a better understanding about ear and jaw pain, let’s take a look at some of the most common causes.

TMJ disorder

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can actually be the culprit of many problems including ear and jaw pain. If you suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), you may experience headaches, migraines, eye pain and even sinus pressure. Some other conditions and factors that can contribute to TMJ pain and, ultimately, TMD include:

• Teeth grinding.
• Misaligned jaw or teeth.
• Muscle injuries.
• Arthritis. 

That is why it is important to visit your dentist for proper treatment to eliminate your symptoms and minimize discomfort.

Oral infections

Yes, you can experience ear or jaw pain if you have an oral infection. The most likely culprit is a tooth abscess, which can be extremely painful and radiate pain to the ear or jaw. If you do have a tooth abscess, you might have swelling in the gums or have a tender spot in and around your teeth. 

This pain may even disappear only to reappear again as pain in the ear or jaw. When that happens, it can be a signal that your infection is spreading. 

Injury to the jaw

If you broke your jaw or strained the surrounding muscles of your jaw, this can also radiate to your ear. After falling, a car accident or a blow to the head, do you have ear and jaw pain? When this happens, it may mean that you have a jaw injury that requires medical treatment. Don’t delay on getting care to avoid further complications.

Teeth grinding

With the heightened stress of the pandemic, teeth grinding might be the cause of your jaw or ear pain. When you grind your teeth at night, it places stress on the muscles of your face, neck and jaw.  

This tension can cause pain in your jaw, ears and on the front or side of your face. To make matters worse, some people might even damage their teeth because this condition slowly grinds teeth down and can even break them.

Contact Dr. Mayoor Patel at Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Center of Georgia to learn more.

TMD Symptoms – Headaches – Migraines – Jaw Pain

Can Muscle Strain Cause Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

13 Aug, 2021
•

Muscle strain can impact many areas of peoples’ lives. It can prevent people from getting a good night’s sleep and make them feel worried or anxious. There is a link between muscle tension and anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Muscle tension and poor posture can amplify the symptoms associated with anxiety, which can harm a person. What is GAD? GAD is a type of anxiety disorder that impacts numerous day-to-day activities. A person with GAD will usually display anxiety symptoms on most days, leading to pervasive issues in their life if undiagnosed. GAD diagnosis usually occurs after about six months of ongoing symptoms. These symptoms usually include: Regular fatigue Muscle tension Difficulty falling asleep Restlessness Irritability And more According to the National Institute of Mental Health, these symptoms can cause problems in a person’s life. These symptoms usually accompany Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD), which can lead to overall discomfort. A doctor can help patients diagnose and treat these issues. How Does GAD Relate to TMD? GAD can sometimes occur alongside TMD, which is when the jaw is poorly aligned. This misalignment usually has to be over-compensated for, which can result in posture issues, along with head and neck pain. This poor alignment results in postural instability for patients struggling with TMD. The body must work even harder than usual to compensate for the deficient jaw and neck posture. This can result in the entire body being put in a sympathetic (fight or flight) mode. These posture issues usually bring other symptoms with them, such as: Migraines Fatigue Soreness And more How Can TMD Impact Posture? TMD initially starts in the jaw, but it can eventually impact a person’s entire posture. These posture issues can eventually become future health problems, such as back injuries or muscle strain. This extra exertion on the body can potentially lead to GAD, which results from the added stress of the misalignment. Correcting the TMD can usually lead to the relief of symptoms associated with GAD. Treating Muscle Tensi o n and TMD If a person reduces their overall body tension, they can also relieve symptoms of GAD. Added stress on the body can be the source of some instances of GAD. By relieving the tension, people can lessen their GAD symptoms. TMD could be the cause of the muscle tension, sleeplessness, and irritability that comes with GAD. After TMD is treated, many people note increased relaxation all over their body, such as in the shoulder, neck, and back muscles. When the jaw muscles eventually relax, so can the rest of the body. Improved posture is also noticeable in GAD patients after their TMD disappears. Muscles have a much easier time resting after TMD treatment, which results in a straighter overall back posture. If muscle strain or soreness has accompanied your GAD, it could be related to TMD. TMD has a non-surgical treatment, which can alleviate muscle soreness and tension. Eventually, it could also lead to fewer anxiety symptoms, as the body can easily relax. Here is one of many case histories:

TMJ Disorder Treatment – Slidell, North Shore, Metairie, Mandeville

In fact, many patients spent many years on the medical merry-go-round before they finally made an appointment at our practice, frequently as a final option. That is simply because many individuals do not recognize that their symptoms are related to malocclusion.

Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine examined the existence of TMJD in 24 patients referred to a neurology medical office. The goal was to determine the percentage of individuals referred to a neurology center for headaches where TMJD is the foremost cause of pain. They discovered that 11 out of the 24 individuals with headaches had TMJD. That percentage, nearly fifty percent is viewed as a high proportion when compared to the 15 percent in the general population of TMJD sufferers.

As proof continues to mount regarding the relationship between headaches and TMJD, patients who feel they have this problem should talk with Dr. Appleton. Our staff and doctors have been to advanced training in this treatment.

Signs or Symptoms of TMJ

• Clicking or popping when yawning
• Excessive yawning as you try to adjust your jaw
• Severe headaches and/or migraines
• Light headedness
• Pain in jaw muscles
• Itching ears
• Jaw from time to time locks up when yawning
• Spasm or cramps in the jaw area

A couple other symptoms that might not seem connected to malocclusion include neck, back or shoulder pain. While discomfort in this area might seem unrelated to the jaw, individuals suffering from malocclusion are prone to repeatedly tilt their heads, compelling the muscles of the back, neck and shoulders to compensate.

Tingling or numbness in the hands and arms could also be an unexpected sign of TMJ disorder. The symptoms most likely are from nerves in your arms and hands being squeezed by muscle spasms in the neck, shoulders and face.

Finally, to add insult to injury, you can develop chronic depression after years of constant low-level pain.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, talk to Dr. Appleton. Our own treatment usually includes no pills, zero shots, zero surgery, and no adverse reactions. We are able to take care of these issues since they are more than likely a result of clenching your teeth while you are sleeping and sometimes throughout the day. When you clench your teeth, you make use of many of the most powerful muscles in your body. These muscle contractions might cause early morning headaches and/or stress headaches, and in many cases harm surrounding ligaments, teeth, and other muscles.

The majority of dental treatment to cure malocclusion involves the usage of a splint, or a dental device that temporarily adjusts the bite. Dr. Appleton is now offering Botox for his patients that suffer from TMJ headaches that haven’t responded well to other medications. Botox has proven to be very effective in treating headache pain.

In more severe cases, Dr. Appleton could advise a long-lasting improvement in the bite using tooth replacement, shifting teeth through orthodontic treatment, or a combination of bonding and crowns or veneers. For many individuals, the final results have been effective and their return to a pain-free condition has offered them an additional chance at a considerably more productive life.

Myosa

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When in place the Myosa^® for Snorers will open the airway and control over-breathing through the mouth. The appliance’s flexible sides with airspring base minimises impact on the jaw joint (TMJ) making it suitable for users who suffer from jaw joint (TMJ) disorder or teeth grinding.

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^® for Juniors

The Myosa^® for Juniors is ideal for treating the causes of SDB in children aged between two and six-years-old. The appliance works by correcting the lower jaw postion to open the airway, regulating the breathing and positioning the tongue correctly in the upper jaw.

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Myosa

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The Myosa^® for Juniors is ideal for treating the causes of SDB in children aged between six and 12-years-old. The appliance works by correcting the lower jaw postion to open the airway, regulating the breathing and positioning the tongue correctly in the upper jaw.

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Myosa

^® for TMJ

The Myosa^® for TMJ is designed to automatically correct the alignment of the lower jaw as well as stretch tight, painful muscles around the jaws, head and neck. By gently decompressing the inflamed jaw joint, the appliance relieves pressure and provides an immediate decrease in pain.

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Myosa

^® for Teeth Grinders

Teeth Grinding is a common symprtom associated with SDB. While the entire range of Myosa^® appliances will provide some protection against the damage caused by teeth grinding, the Myosa^® for TMJ is designed specifically for this purpose and provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth.

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90,000 Knocked on the head with a migraine …

We all know the headache. The most common is a migraine-type headache. It often appears along with a toothache. More recently, scientists have proven that sometimes it is the teeth, even healthy ones, that can be the causative agent of the strongest migraine.

A headache in itself is not a disease, but it is a symptom that something is wrong with your physical and sometimes mental state.However, in many cases, despite careful examination, no cause for an acute headache can be found. Experts say that prolonged headache or migraine attacks are a sign that you need to go to the dentist, even if the teeth themselves do not bother you.

Of course, most often, the cause of severe headaches, which the vast majority of people suffer from, are injuries to the temporal part of the head. But, besides this, migraine attacks can be associated with inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity, in particular with caries.This is due to some deformation of the teeth, as a result of which the upper jaw is too close to the lower.

The fact is that a headache often occurs due to an incorrect bite. And a huge number of people with crooked teeth are not even aware of their problem. If the teeth are in the wrong position, pressure is exerted on the muscles, nerves and vessels located nearby, due to which migraine attacks begin.

As a result of the incorrect position, the temporomandibular joint suffers – the movable connection of the lower jaw with the base of the skull. At the same time, the researchers were able to identify a trend according to which people who suffer from arthritis of the temporomandibular joint are also more likely to have problems with their teeth. Their surfaces are almost constantly in contact, as a result of which a strong tension arises in the chewing and facial muscles, accompanied by pain when eating food.

Usually, people who have these symptoms are referred to an otolaryngologist or neurologist, but it also makes sense for them to see a physiotherapist and dentist.In turn, regular monitoring of the condition of the teeth and timely treatment of caries can be one of the most reliable methods of preventing disorders in the work of the temporomandibular joint, as well as in most cases of almost untreatable migraine.

Be wary if your head hurts in the morning, if you experience pain behind the eyeballs, in the sinuses, in the neck and shoulders. Visit your dentist as soon as possible. Consider getting your teeth and gums examined at least twice a year.

Headache as a sign of dental pathology

Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint has extensive symptoms, including crunching and clicking of the jaw, joint jamming, crunching. But not all symptoms are classic. There are no nerve receptors in the joint itself, so pain occurs in the neck, head, ears, or the so-called trigger zones (muscle compaction). One of the characteristic signs of TMJ pathology is headache, which causes severe discomfort to a person.

Features of headache with TMJ dysfunction

Very often, joint diseases are accompanied by disc displacement and pain in the periarticular tissues. This pain radiates to the temples, forehead, back of the head and even the shoulder blades. Unpleasant sensations can be so strong that the patient takes them for manifestations of migraines or other brain pathologies.

Another cause of stubborn headaches can be bruxism (teeth grinding). This is also a sign of dysfunction, causing severe muscle pain, which, in turn, radiates throughout the head. It is significant that even rest and peace do not bring the desired relief, and the pills only drown the pain for a short time. A person goes to therapists, neurologists, manual osteopaths, hoping to get rid of the problem, and its root lies precisely in the TMJ dysfunction, which should be treated by an experienced dentist.

Diagnostics

If the main complaint is precisely the headache, then it can be difficult to suspect the pathology of the joint, and often this happens already with the progression of the disease. The correct diagnosis is made after examination, questioning and additional examination methods, such as:

• X-ray;
• MRI;
• computed tomography;
• electromyography;
• arthroscopy.

A neurological consultation may be required to rule out neurological diagnoses.

Treatment

The main goal of treatment is to relieve pain and restore the functions of the affected joint. This happens in several ways:

1. Taking medications (pain relief of the chewing muscles with injections, oral administration of analgesics).
2. Therapeutic manipulations (re-treatment of teeth, taking into account individual anatomical characteristics).
3. Orthopedic treatment (wearing splints and other apparatus for normalizing occlusion). From the moment splints are put on, they work to reduce muscle tension, which immediately relieves pain, including headache.
4. Physiotherapy techniques (laser, electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, etc.). The specific type of procedure depends on the degree of pain and its cause. If there are contraindications to physiotherapy, you can replace it with home application of compresses (alcoholic or herbal).
5. Myogymnastics and relaxation psychotherapy.
6. Acupuncture and facial massage.

The above activities, together with a properly selected sleep and rest regimen, help to reduce the intensity of headaches and achieve their complete disappearance during a full course of medical prescriptions.

• Therapy and hygiene

• Surgery

• Prosthetics, implantation

Optional

Treatment of the masseter muscle – treatment of the temporomandibular joint

We usually don’t think about how our jaw moves.Most people, when speaking of bite, mean teeth. But, as mentioned above, the bite is a whole system that controls the position of the jaw. Here are its components and their role:

The role of muscles

Picture # 4 Opening, closing the mouth, chewing and swallowing is due to the work of a large number of muscles.

The opening of the mouth is provided by the muscles located in the neck. The muscles that support the lower jaw are located behind the jaw and run under the cheeks to the frontal and behind the ear regions.

The most powerful chewing muscles are located in the buccal region.

Picture №5 Our body strives to carry out all functions with the greatest rationality and the least expenditure of energy. Therefore, normally the chewing muscles hold the jaw in a position in which the teeth are separated by 1-2 mm.

Picture # 6 From this rational position, the lower jaw moves hundreds of times a day until the teeth close together for swallowing.

All this happens subconsciously. Our brains are “programmed” for a process called proprioception.

With correct bite and jaw position at rest, most of the muscles are in a relaxed state.

If your teeth do not close properly, the muscles can adapt, causing the jaw to close in a trajectory that causes excessive tension, spasm and muscle fatigue over time.

In this case, the position of the physiological rest of the lower jaw (when the teeth are not closed) is not accompanied by muscle relaxation, as it should be with normal occlusion, but, on the contrary, leads to their constant tension.

Role of joints

Drawing №7 The lower jaw moves thanks to the joints. called the temporomandibular joints, or TMJ.

Imagine the joint as a ball in a basket – the articular head (ball) moves in the depression of the skull (basket). There is a soft tissue layer (articular disc) between them.

The position of the articular head (condyle) in the corresponding depression of the skull (fossa) is largely determined by the bite (occlusion) – the position where the muscles hold the jaw.

Figure # 8 If the system is balanced, the condyles are located in the center of the glenoid fossa and the disc, being between the glenoid head and the glenoid fossa, moves freely in the joint when the mouth is opened and closed.

Picture # 9 If the chewing muscles adjust to the wrong position of the jaw, they can keep the head of the joint in an offset position, negatively affecting its function. This often leads to displacement of the articular disc, which prevents its normal movement in the joint until the moment when it completely moves to its normal position when the mouth is opened.When this happens, a click occurs.

The intensity of the click can range from a subtle vibration to a very loud sound.

This sound is often a sign of abnormal joint function, which in turn may be associated with malocclusion.

The role of posture

Posture also plays a significant role in occlusion. The lower jaw and lower limbs can be considered interdependent parts of the human skeletal system.If any of these parts are negatively affected, it can affect other parts of the skeleton as well.

Let’s check this by closing our teeth slightly. Pay attention to which teeth closed first. Then tilt your head back as much as possible and close your teeth again. Don’t be surprised if this time the first contact is on the other teeth. By changing the position of the head, you thereby affect the balance of the entire skeletal system (and your bite in particular).

The same happens when you get a seal.Lying in the dental chair under anesthesia, it seems that the filling is not in the way. But after the anesthetic wears off and you get out of the chair, you notice that the filling is higher than the rest of your teeth. This is why in neuromuscular dentistry, the bite is assessed in the sitting position – the position your jaw is usually in. If the bite is assessed in a sitting position, leaning back, the jaw also shifts posteriorly. This situation is different from the usual one.

Photo # 10.11 In an experiment on rats, an overstated filling was made for one lateral tooth on the right side.A week later, X-ray examination revealed a deformity of the entire spine. After the occlusion was leveled by making a filling on the lateral tooth on the left, the shape of the spine was restored.

Picture # 12 Since there is a direct connection between all parts of the musculoskeletal system, the position of the head undoubtedly affects the occlusion and can cause tension in the muscles of the neck and back.

Picture # 13 When the lower jaw is displaced backward as a result of an anomaly of bite in childhood or abrasion of teeth over time, the neck moves forward and the head is thrown back.This, in turn, significantly increases the load on the neck muscles of the shoulder girdle. Therefore, most people with an anterior head position experience cervical pain or neck muscle tension.

Picture №14, 15 Often the displacement of the lower jaw in case of malocclusion is accompanied by rotation of the first and second cervical vertebrae, which leads to a pronounced deformation of the entire cervical spine.

Just as changes in the position of the jaw can cause changes in posture and lead to pathology in the cervical spine, changes in the spine can affect the position of the jaw and occlusion.

Role of respiration and sleep apnea

Picture # 16 Backward displacement of the lower jaw often leads to narrowing of the airway lumen due to deformation of the cervical spine and displacement of the tongue posteriorly, which follows the lower jaw. In order to increase the airway lumen, the muscles move the neck forward even more and tilt the head back.

In this case, the artery carrying blood to the brain along the spine can bend sharply in the region of the first and second cervical vertebrae, causing disturbances in the blood supply to the brain.

Narrowing of the airways and disturbed blood supply can cause sleep apnea – a short-term cessation of breathing during sleep.

Repetitive stops in breathing lead to a significant change in the metabolism of the whole organism and, as a result, can become one of the triggering mechanisms of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, stroke, etc. Therefore, an untreated state of sleep apnea is responsible for a decrease in life expectancy by 20% …

Now you understand that the bite is much more difficult than just the way of closing the teeth! A malocclusion can cause not only early loss of teeth, but also cause such serious pathologies as diabetes and myocardial infarction and even reduce life expectancy.

90,000 Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ): symptoms and treatment

What is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction?
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction means that the joint connecting the upper and lower jaw is not functioning properly.This joint is one of the most difficult joints in the human body, it is responsible for the movement of the lower jaw forward, backward and from side to side. Any disease that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, cartilage and bones from working properly is called temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Often with TMJ dysfunction there is a feeling that the jaw clicks, clicks, or even momentarily “wedges”. It is often impossible to determine the exact cause of this disorder.

What are the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction disorders have many signs and symptoms.It is often difficult to pinpoint the presence of TMJ dysfunction because one or more of its symptoms may be a manifestation of another disorder. Your dentist can make an accurate diagnosis by reviewing your medical and dental records, conducting a clinical examination, and taking the necessary X-rays.

The most common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include the following:

• Headache (often resembling migraine), ear pain, and pain and pressure behind the eyes.
• A clicking or clicking sound when you open or close your mouth.
• Pain when yawning, opening your mouth wide, or chewing
• If the jaws “jam”, they do not open or “pop out”
• Weakness of the muscles of the jaw
• Suddenly the upper and lower jaws begin to close differently

How is TMJ dysfunction treated?
Although there is no single treatment for TMJ dysfunction, there are different treatments that you can follow to significantly reduce your symptoms.Your dentist will be able to recommend one or more of the following methods.

• Try to relieve muscle spasm and pain by applying hot compresses or medications such as muscle relaxants, aspirin or other over-the-counter pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory medications.
• Reduce adverse squeezing and grinding effects by wearing a device sometimes referred to as a bite block or splint.Tailored to fit your mouth, this machine covers your upper teeth and prevents them from rubbing against your lower teeth.
• Learn relaxation techniques to control jaw muscle tension. Your dentist may advise you to go to a training or consultation session to learn how to deal with stress.

If the jaw joints are out of order and other treatments do not help, jaw joint surgery can be recommended.

Headache? I need to visit the dentist!

What is the harm from a seal?

Frequent headaches, tinnitus, fatigue and even changes in posture are usually treated by different specialists, but almost never by dentists.Indeed, what, it would seem, is the connection between feeling unwell and a recently placed filling? The “culprit” is likely to be age, stress, bad weather, osteochondrosis, but unchanged bite.

But often the reason is the wrong, forced position of the lower jaw. It can be the cause of overstrain of the muscles, which react with soreness, easily detected by simple palpation. And, since everything is interconnected in our body, this stress, in turn, generates other negative consequences from hearing loss and tinnitus to poor posture.

Unfortunately, such a change in bite can be a consequence of therapeutic treatment, when the doctor concentrates exclusively on the problem of caries and does not try to see the patient in full.

Real case:

A middle-aged patient who closely monitors her teeth and regularly visits the dentist had to quit her job due to persistent headache and dizziness. I went through many specialists, until at the reception of a dentist-gnathologist it turned out that after another therapeutic treatment, the bite was changed, and over time this provoked a displacement of the lower jaw and muscle overstrain, which, in turn, squeezed the vertebral artery and disrupted the blood supply to the brain.

The bite can be corrected

Fortunately, there are practically no irreversible consequences of a change in bite due to treatment or neglect (for example, tooth extraction without subsequent compensation). An experienced doctor will help you fix this, but there are a few serious points to keep in mind.

The first thing that is very important for the patient to understand is that not all modern dentists recognize the need for gnathology – a fairly new area of ​​knowledge that focuses on occlusion, that is, a complex understanding of the contacts of the upper and lower jaw at rest, movement, and chewing.

In practice, this means that a competent orthopedic surgeon will never begin even a simple treatment until he has carried out a full examination of the patient’s jaw position with palpation, an assessment of the dental arches and the characteristics of the bite.

The doctor conducts a small or large functional analysis, depending on the complexity of the situation: palpation of the muscles, filling out a patient’s health questionnaire, model analysis in the articulator, etc. Sometimes the dentist even prescribes examination by other specialists, because gnathology is closely related to neurophysiology.

When the true position of the jaw is determined and a problem is identified, a splint is made for the patient, which helps to return the lower jaw to its physiological position and thereby to establish synchronous muscle work and correct the bite. After wearing it, you can start other methods of restoration and restoration of teeth, as well as prosthetics.

In addition to orthopedists, orthodontists are also involved in correcting the position of the lower jaw, who increasingly use the new MEAW multiloop wire arc technique invented by Japanese professors Kimo and Sato.This is a special type of braces that can solve many bite problems more effectively than traditional designs.

Real case:

A young patient complains of tinnitus and pain in the temporal region. He has no crowns or implants, a minimum of fillings. There was an uncorrected bite in childhood, a displacement of the lower jaw and, accordingly, muscle overstrain. Successful treatment was carried out by an orthopedist and orthodontist.

Who is he, a gnathologist?

Despite the fact that gnathology is already the leading direction in the development of dentistry, it is still impossible to obtain an international certificate in Russia. You will have to go to Germany or Austria for it. Nevertheless, domestic specialists also try to keep up with their foreign colleagues in this matter.

So, certified dentists organize additional training courses on the principles of gnathology and, as a result, issue the corresponding documents of the Russian model.

Therefore, the next time you are interested in a particular doctor or clinic, do not be afraid to ask a direct question about whether the specialist is familiar with gnathology and whether he understands that even one blindly placed filling can worsen a patient’s life for a long time.

Facial pain (facial pain)

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests.For a diagnosis and correct treatment prescription, you should contact your doctor.

Pain in the face (facial pain) – the causes of the appearance, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and treatment methods.

Pain in the face belongs to the category of pain syndromes, the diagnosis of which is the most difficult.

Facial pain can be based on diseases of various organs or systems or arise from damage to nerve fibers (primarily cranial nerves).

Separately from these two groups, pain is considered, a clear cause of which sometimes cannot be identified. They are called persistent idiopathic or atypical pain.

Types of pain

Facial pain caused by damage to the branches of the cranial nerves (neurogenic) and pain caused by diseases of organs or systems (somatogenic) are diagnosed.

Neurogenic facial pain

Trigeminal neuralgia

in which the branches of the trigeminal nerve are affected, is characterized by burning pain, which is paroxysmal in nature and intensifies with any movements of the mouth (chewing, opening), tension of facial muscles (smile, grimace).Most often, it is concentrated at the points of exit of the branches of the trigeminal nerve (in the area of ​​the eyebrows and wings of the nose) and may be accompanied by tics. Increased lacrimation is often noted. In the area of ​​the painful point, there is a burning sensation, bursting, the skin turns red or turns pale. An attack can be triggered by pressing on certain points. Sometimes on the face areas with increased or decreased sensitivity come to light.

Possible causes

It is believed that most often such pain occurs due to compression of the branches of the trigeminal nerve in the narrow bony canals of the skull by vessels that form loops around the nerve.In some cases, compression of the nerve in the small bony canals of the upper jaw occurs due to edema of the surrounding tissues due to frequent rhinitis or chronic inflammation in the area of ​​the tooth. A growing tumor can compress the nerve. Sometimes pain syndrome develops against the background of herpetic lesions.

Diagnostics and examinations

When a nerve is compressed in the infraorbital canal, pain can occur in the orbit and eyebrows.When the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve is compressed, the tooth is considered to be the culprit of painful attacks. This can be confirmed or excluded using a panoramic image of the upper and lower jaws. To exclude the tumor nature of the pain syndrome, MRI of the brain or MRI angiography is prescribed.

Which doctors should I contact?

The variety of symptoms accompanying trigeminal neuralgia makes it difficult to diagnose.

Consultations required:

• dentist;
• otorhinolaryngologist, especially in the case of frequent rhinitis;
• neurologists.

What should you do if you have symptoms?

As a rule, patients intuitively exclude factors that can provoke a pain attack. They try to avoid meals, do not wash, for fear of affecting the trigger points of pain.

Treatment

Success in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia can only be achieved with an integrated approach.

After a thorough examination, the doctor may prescribe vitamins, antispasmodics, antidepressants and, in some cases, antiepileptic drugs.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are recommended: laserotherapy, acupuncture, ultrasound therapy, electrophoresis, diadinamic currents, paraffin applications.

If positive results cannot be achieved with drug therapy, surgery may be necessary. Microvascular decompression allows the nerve root to be released. The essence of this operation is to isolate the nerve and the vessel that compresses it. Effective radiofrequency destruction of the affected branch of the trigeminal nerve.

Somatogenic facial pain

Pain in the face and head can be a manifestation of a disease of any organ or system, in which case they are called somatogenic. These pains may not be as sharp and intense as in the case of damage to the trigeminal nerve, but their persistence significantly worsens the person’s condition.

Possible causes

The simplest and most quickly diagnosed cause of facial pain is the affected tooth.With advanced caries or periodontitis, the pain is localized not only in the area of ​​the diseased tooth, but also in the jaw, temple and ear.

Disruption of the chewing apparatus (dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint) causes considerable suffering to a person.

In addition to intra-articular changes (arthrosis, underdevelopment of the articular head), an incorrect bite can lead to pain, for example, due to the loss of a group of teeth or an incorrectly selected prosthesis, or a prolonged spasm of the chewing muscles.

Inflammatory processes in the paranasal and frontal sinuses can also cause pain. Depending on the location of the pathological process, pain can be felt in different areas of the face. So, with frontal sinusitis (inflammation of the frontal sinuses), pain can occur in the frontal region and give up. Sinusitis (inflammation of the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses) is characterized by pain in the infraorbital region with a return to the upper jaw. With ethmoiditis (inflammation of the mucous cells of the ethmoid bone) – between the eyes with recoil to the temporal region.

Diseases of the eyes (eyes) can lead to pain.

Sometimes facial pain is a symptom of angle-closure glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure), which requires immediate treatment, as the disease can lead to loss of vision.

Diagnostics and examinations

To find out the source of the pain, you need to go through a series of tests.

The dentist will order panoramic images of the upper and lower jaw.They allow you to identify a diseased tooth and sanitize the focus of inflammation.

If pathological processes in the area of ​​the nasal sinuses are suspected, it is advisable to carry out radiography or computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses (primarily the maxillary and frontal).

Much less often, the cause of facial pain is sought in disruption of the temporomandibular joint.

The articular nature of facial pain can be confirmed by radiography of the temporomandibular joint.

The radiologist will help identify changes in the articular surfaces and deformation of the joint space.

Clinical manifestations of malfunctioning of the temporomandibular joint are characterized by:

– pain and crunching in the joint area when opening the mouth and chewing;

– the inability to smoothly and completely open the mouth;

– swelling and pain in the joint area (between the cheek and the auricle;

– asymmetric opening of the mouth;

– uneven wear of the teeth on the right and left sides.

The “ocular” nature of facial pain has a number of features.

The pain is always clearly localized on one side. Soreness is felt when moving and pressing on the eyeball. The final diagnosis can only be made by an ophthalmologist after measuring intraocular pressure and examining visual function.

Which doctors should I contact?

The presence of an extensive list of possible causes of facial pain often requires visiting doctors of various profiles: a dentist to exclude pain associated with tooth damage, an otorhinolaryngologist and an ophthalmologist, if there are suspicions of diseases of the ENT organs or eyes.

If the studies do not confirm the somatogenic (that is, due to organ damage) nature of the pain, then the neurologist should continue the further diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment in the case of a somatogenic nature of pain should be aimed at eliminating the disease of the “causative” organ.

In the presence of inflammation in the sinuses of the facial skull, the otorhinolaryngologist will prescribe a complex therapy, including antibacterial drugs, vasoconstrictor sprays, antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.Sometimes a positive result of treatment can be achieved by flushing the sinuses using the YAMIK catheter.

If the cause of the pain is an eye disease, then further treatment is carried out by an ophthalmologist. As a rule, when confirming the diagnosis of angle-closure glaucoma, a complex of drugs is prescribed, which includes pilocarpine and timolol, as well as diuretics. In the absence of improvement, the optometrist may recommend laser or surgical treatment

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication.In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For a diagnosis and correct treatment prescription, you should contact your doctor.

Information checked by expert

Lishova Ekaterina Alexandrovna

Higher medical education, work experience – 19 years

90,000 Causes of pain or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

The lower jaw is the only movable element among all the bones of the skull.It is the mobility of this horseshoe-shaped bone that provides a person with the ability to open his mouth, chew food and speak clearly. Uninterrupted operation of the jaw directly depends on the state of the temporomandibular joint: it is this structure that helps the mouth to open wide. Usually, this joint works silently.

Occasionally, people may notice a click (“click”) when opening their mouths. This sound often appears on one side, less often on both sides. Jaw clicks are not necessarily painful or unpleasant.This click is created when the mandibular joint does not work properly, when part of the head of the bone comes out of the articular bag, and then returns to its place. This condition is called temporomandibular joint dysfunction by dentists. Moreover, in addition to the clicking symptom, patients usually complain of chronic headaches or aching pains in the ear, back of the head.

Most often, “jogging” factors can be:

• malocclusion;

90,031 injuries to the jaw;

90,031 professional vocal loads (usually after lengthy performances, filming, oratory battles), more often in children and adolescents;

• unqualified treatment at the dentist with subsequent uneven distribution of the chewing load, asymmetry and displacement of the discs;
• long-term caries;
• bruxism (uncontrollable grinding of teeth during sleep) and its negative consequences for the jaws;
• purulent-inflammatory diseases of the lower jaw and the appearance of arthritis;
• displacement of the articular head after a sharp tension of the facial muscles (usually after chewing solid food, stress, serious physical exertion).