Ft. Worth Orthodontist Discusses the Link Between Headaches and TMD

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Do you suffer from frequent headaches? If so, the cause may be a common and serious issue known as TMJ disorder, or TMD. In the United States alone, over ten million people exhibit the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. At Lake Country Orthodontics, we offer treatment for TMJ disorder. In today’s blog, your Ft. Worth orthodontist, Dr. Ciro Cabal, explains the link between headaches and TMD. He will also discuss treatment options.

What is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to the skull. These joints also control all jaw movement, including the actions necessary to eat or speak. When the jaws become strained, you may develop TMJ disorder. TMD eventually makes opening and closing your mouth difficult and uncomfortable. Trauma, teeth grinding, and bite misalignment, or malocclusion, are common causes of jaw joint strain.

The Symptoms of TMD

How do you know if you suffer from TMJ dysfunction? Besides headaches, common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

  • Earaches and tinnitus
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Popping or clicking in the jaw
  • Jaw and face pain
  • Toothaches and tooth sensitivity

If you experience one or more of these symptoms on a regular basis, contact Dr. Cabal right away.

Treating TMJ-Related Headaches

In order to end your TMJ headaches, Dr. Cabal will need to reduce jaw strain. For bite misalignment, Dr. Cabal may recommend orthodontic treatment to ease misalignment. If teeth grinding is causing your TMD, a device similar to a night guard may be prescribed. This oral appliance will prevent the upper and lower teeth from touching, eliminating your teeth grinding episodes. In addition, Dr. Cabal may recommend muscle exercises or compresses to address TMJ symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Ft. Worth Orthodontist

Do you experience one or more symptoms of TMJ disorder, such as chronic headaches? Then talk to your Ft. Worth orthodontist today. Dr. Cabal will diagnose the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Call Lake Country Orthodontics today at (817) 236-7846 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Ciro Cabal. Located in the 76179 area, we proudly welcomes families from Azle, Saginaw, Springtown, Weatherford, Haslet, Ft. Worth, and all surrounding communities.