Headaches & Jaw Pain
If you constantly experience headaches or migraines, and you don't know why, you may suffer from temporomandibular disorder. This condition, called TMJ or TMD, can also contribute to chronic earaches, jaw pain, shoulder and neck pain, an inability to completely open and close the mouth, and popping or clicking of the jaw joints.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ joints, or temporomandibular joints, are located just behind the innermost teeth in your jaw. They hold the jaw, or mandible, to the skull's temporal bone, thus the name. Properly aligned TMJ joints allow the mouth to move freely, without pain or problems. Misaligned joints, however, can lead to pain and habitual, involuntary teeth grinding, called bruxism. Stress, injury, tooth wear, tooth damage, jaw malformation, and tooth misalignment can contribute to TMJ disorder. Muscles and nerves around the jaw joints must work overtime to hold the jaw in proper position for normal function, though the joints aren't aligned correctly. Overstressed muscles and nerves can send pain signals to the brain, and in some cases, the muscles contract during sleep, causing bruxism. Continual clenching and grinding of teeth causes tooth wear and breakage, thus elevating the problem.
How Are TMJ and Bruxism Treated?
For mild to moderate TMJ disorder, and for bruxism, an oral appliance may help. Dr. Kobak recommends the NTI appliance, (or another type of bite appliance based on individual needs), usually worn while sleeping, to relieve the painful and degenerative symptoms of TMJ disorder. If your TMJ pain is not relieved with the NTI, stress relief exercises, and some habit changes (no gum chewing, for instance), Dr. Kobak may refer you to a specialist.
Schedule Your Visit Today!
We invite you to call 516-433-2211 and make your appointment with Dr. Kobak. Whether you need a checkup, you’d like to discuss smile makeover procedures, or you’re interested in improving your oral health with restorative dentistry, Syosset Dental is here to help. Our office is conveniently located in Syosset, NY near all the major highways, easily accessible from almost any location in Nassau, Suffolk or New York City. Be sure to visit our blog and subscribe for updates, and join our conversation on Facebook, too!
