TMJ Disorder & Headache Relief
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint is most commonly referred to as the TMJ. This joint is located at the base of the skull in front of the ear and connects the lower jaw with the upper jaw.
The TMJ is used whenever you drink, eat, speak, swallow and yawn. When you have problems with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control it, this is known as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorder or TMD).
What are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder or TMD occurs when there is damage or displacement to this joint through stress, trauma or excessive teeth grinding and clenching.
Symptoms of TMD include:
- jaw pain
- headaches
- inability to completely open your mouth
- difficulty closing your jaw
- clicking and popping in the joint
- pain in the muscles of the jaw, face, temples, neck
- wearing down of teeth
How is TMJ Disorder Treated?
Depending upon the severity of the disorder, treatment of TMJ disorder can range from rest and ice to jaw surgery. If teeth clenching and grinding is occurring, a custom made night guard or Botox® injection therapy may be recommended.
To learn more about clenching and grinding, click here.
Other treatment options may include orthodontics to repair abnormal bites and ensure proper alignment of your teeth. In many cases, treatment for TMJ disorders involves a combination of therapies.
To learn more about Botox® injection therapy for TMJ disorder, click here.
Are You Suffering from Tension Headaches?
Many adults suffer from chronic tension headaches that can interfere with daily life. They are the most common type of headache in adults and are often referred to as stress headaches.
Tension headaches are a dull pain, tightness, or pressure around your forehead or the back of your head and neck which causes severe pain and discomfort.
The most common treatment for tension headaches are over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve). These medications have all proven to be effective for mild-to-moderate tension headaches.
For more severe or persistent headaches, a complete evaluation is recommended. Based upon these findings, a nightguard, orthodontic therapy, relief of muscle tension with Botox Injections, or combination therapy can be prescribed.
To learn more about Botox® injection treatment for tension headaches, click here.
