Is Your Headache Related to a TMJ Disorder?

Categories: TMJ/TMD Treatment

tmj disorders in NashvilleHeadaches are awful, and they can interfere with your busy life and make it difficult to get things done. There are a number of different types of headaches, including:

Most Common Types of Headaches

  • Migraine-type headaches that occur with TMJ disorder patients because of the pressure on the jaw joints.
  • Cluster headaches that present with a burst of pain behind one eye.
  • Sinus headaches that feel like pressure and worsen when the head is tilted forward.
  • Tension headaches that range from a dull ache to sharp pain. TMJ-related tension headaches usually originate from the jaw.

TMJ Headache Triggers

There are triggers for TMJ-related headaches, including:

  • Trauma
  • Poor posture
  • Medication and substance overuse
  • Hormonal changes such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle.
  • Fatigue
  • Extreme physical exertion
  • Dental problems
  • Clenching and grinding
  • Changes in the weather
  • Certain foods such as chocolate, cheese, and MSG
  • Allergies
Learn More About TMJ Headaches  

How to Take Care of Your TMJ-Related Headache

There are certain things you can do yourself to help with TMJ-related headaches. Try to alleviate stress with meditation, exercise, or something relaxing that you enjoy. Try to make time each day for this.

Avoid any foods that seem to cause your headaches.

Soothe your jawbone when it is sore with ice or moist heat

Visit your TMJ-disorder specialist in the Nashville area, Our Dentist, and talk about the type of headache symptoms you are experiencing. Treatment might include an oral appliance that will help you avoid having headaches.