Do you deal with chronic headaches and migraines? If so, you are not alone. Over 35 million Americans deal with migraines and chronic headaches that can impact their daily lives. However, did you know that for many patients, one’s oral health might be playing a role in the development or continuance of chronic headaches and migraines? In some instances, patients may be dealing with a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder, or “TMD,” that can contribute to this problem.
What is temporomandibular joint disorder?
At Schmitt Dental, our team describes TMD as a condition that can contribute to chronic headaches and migraines. This condition is caused by the TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, that hinges the upper and lower jaw. For unknown reasons, some patients begin to experience dysfunction in this joint and the surrounding tendons, ligaments, and muscles that can cause discomfort. While most common concerns include clenching and grinding of the teeth, popping and locking of the jaw, and jaw soreness, the condition can also cause patients to experience regular headaches and migraines. The pain that can radiate from the temporomandibular joints can cause pain to follow up towards the head and cause chronic migraines or even down through the neck and shoulders, causing discomfort and pain in the surrounding areas.
Other causes of chronic headaches and migraines as they relate to oral health
TMD is not the only culprit that can arise from the smile and cause chronic headaches and migraines. Patients with an uneven bite, cavities, or even gum disease may have referred pain and discomfort as well. By ensuring patients are free from cavities, periodontal disease, and poor bite alignment, a dentist can then move forward in treating TMJ/TMD concerns and help individuals find relief from constant pain.
Call Schmitt Dental today
With three locations throughout the areas of Clarksville, TN, patients can obtain access to any of our dental professionals to help improve their overall dental health and wellness with those who care! Call to book a consultation visit with our dentists to learn more about the correlation between one’s oral health and chronic migraines and headaches.