Migraines and TMJ

Southern California including Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Beverly Hills, Valencia and Hollywood, California

Migraines and Headaches Could Mean You Have TMJ/TMD

Anyone who suffers from recurring, intense headaches knows how debilitating they can be. Chronic, severe headaches can affect your day-to-day relationships, productivity and quality of life. But did you know that many long-suffering headache sufferers have actually been diagnosed with TMJ/TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder? That’s because TMJ can cause headaches that feel just like migraines.

At the office of Los Angeles, California TMJ dentist Dr. Dell Goodrick, we understand how life-altering major headaches can be, and how so many of our patients are desperate for relief. That’s why we take the time to review your symptoms and perform comprehensive TMJ tests to see if TMJ is the cause of your pain.

What is TMJ?

TMJ, also known as TMD, is a medical condition that results when your temporomandibular joint is out of alignment. The temporomandibular joint is located where your lower jaw connects to the skull. 

TMJ causes headaches because of the extra stress the alignment issues put on surrounding muscles and nerves. Read more about the connection between migraine headaches and TMJ.

Symptoms of TMJ/TMD

The TM joints are in constant movement, from activities like speaking and chewing. When that joint is not aligned properly, it can cause a variety of symptoms.

In addition to intense, ongoing headaches, symptoms of TMJ can range from stiffness in the jaw and neck, to a clicking sound when the jaw moves.

TMJ patients may also experience muscle spasms, a sense that the jaw won’t open or close appropriately, and grinding of the teeth. Read a complete list of common TMJ symptoms here.

A Treatment Plan for TMJ/TMD

Dr. Goodrick is highly skilled at treating TMJ and will work with you to develop a specialized treatment plan for your individual situation. Our team also stays on top of current TMJ treatment advances, which can include:

• Custom mouth guards
• Correction of a misaligned bite
• Restorative dentistry, such as crowns or the filing down of problematic teeth
• Refer patients to chiropractic care

Our bite adjustment protocol includes what is called “Tek-Scan” technology, which is an occlusal analysis tool that reduces the risk of implant failure, trauma to teeth, fractures in porcelain, ineffective splints, etc.

If you are suffering from chronic headaches or migraines, please contact our Los Angeles, California dentist to take a step toward effective and long-term pain management.