How Can Mending TMJ Solve Your Headache Woes?

The headaches associated with TMJ can be treated with one or more of these solutions.tmj

Do you experience frequent headaches? If other causes have been ruled out, you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Often abbreviated to TMJ, this jaw misalignment causes pain in the jaw, neck, and head; it can be so severe that it disrupts your daily life. Dr. Nichole Cauwels and Dr. Kendra Zuercher, dentists at Designer Dentistry & Smiles in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offer some of their suggestions for helping to relieve the headaches caused by TMJ.

Heat and ice are helpful

Applying moist heat from a hot water bottle can decrease pain and help return some of your jaw’s mobility. Wrapping ice packs in a clean cloth and placing it on your jaw can also help cut some of the pain associated with TMJ headaches. A word of advice from your Sioux Falls dentists: don’t overheat the hot water, and ice packs should only be placed against the skin for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, and never without a barrier between ice and skin.

Small doses of medication

Many health professionals, including your Sioux Falls dentist, recommend trying a low dosage of over-the-counter analgesic to alleviate headaches. If the standard medications – aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen – aren’t helping, talk to Dr. Caulwels or Dr. Zuercher about some other options. They will be able to work with you to find an effective headache solution at your Sioux Falls pharmacy.

Relaxation can bring relief

Clenching the jaw may become a habitual action for TMJ sufferers. However, to lessen your headaches, your Sioux Falls dentist recommends consciously keeping your upper and lower teeth separated by relaxing your facial muscles. You may need some practice before this becomes a habit. Relaxation methods, such as controlled breathing or meditation, can also help you release tension.

If you think your headaches might be stemming from TMJ, Call our Sioux Falls Dental Office to make an appointment with your Sioux Falls dentists at Designer Dentistry & Smiles about an evaluation and personalized treatment options.