If you have headaches or migraines on a regular basis, this could be the result of TMJ disorder, also known as TMD. To bring relief and also improve the balance and health of your smile, your Livonia, MI, dentist may suggest treatment with an oral appliance. We’re also looking at the connection between TMD and issues like bruxism (teeth grinding).
Headaches and TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder occurs when your temporomandibular joints undergo excessive strain. These joints connect your jaw and skull, and control the movements necessary to eat and speak. The disorder occurs often as a result of tooth loss, malocclusion, injury to the face or jaw, teeth grinding, or issues with the growth and development of your jaw joints and oral structures. Warning signs of the disorder often include persistent headaches and jaw pain, as well as popping or crackling in the jaw, and aches in the face or neck. If you encounter one or more of these common symptoms, we urge you to contact our team for an exam and diagnosis.
TMJ Therapy
If our exam finds indicators of TMD, then we will move forward with treatment. For some, treatment will involve the use of crowns to improve balance, or orthodontics to correct misalignment. However, for most we correct the disorder with a simple oral appliance. The device will be crafted based on detailed digital images of your smile. When complete, it will look and fit like a mouthguard, and is worn as you sleep. The device repositions the jaw to ease pressure and bring relief, so you avoid headaches and other painful symptoms!
The Bruxism Connection
The disorder could be caused by bruxism (chronic teeth grinding) or likewise, untreated TMJ disorder could lead to the onset of bruxism. When you grind and clench your teeth on a regular basis, this could damage teeth or wear them down, altering your smile’s appearance and causing issues like tooth decay and dental infection. Fortunately, the same oral appliance could provide a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent further injury. The device also helps correct the factors behind the onset of your teeth grinding.
If you have any questions about how we stop headaches due to issues like TMD or bruxism, then contact our team today. We want to offer a solution that is noninvasive and helps you smile, eat, and speak with confidence and comfort.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY?
Our team wants to help you find the right solution for TMJ disorder! For more information on how we stop frequent headaches, then call the office of James Stewart, DDS in Livonia, MI, today at (734) 425-4400. You can also visit our office at 15873 Middlebelt Rd Suite 100 Livonia, MI 48151.