Solutions for Headache Caused by Clenching Jaw

Did you know that your headaches may be caused by things that are happening in your mouth and jaw? For some Smyrna, Georgia residents, headaches are caused by bite imbalances that often result in a clenching jaw. The clenching jaw is what causes the headaches, and this is treatable. Also, jaw pain causing a headache is a common problem.

Most people who suffer from jaw clenching have a TMJ disorder. TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint, a joint that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull. This temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is in front of both ears on the side of your head, and it allows the jaw to open and close correctly. If someone has a TMJ disorder, they may have difficulty with eating and speaking, as well as pain from the jaw clenching that often occurs as a part of the disorder.

TMJ Symptoms

TMJ disorder symptoms can largely depend on the cause of your TMJ disorder and the severity of your condition. Most commonly, TMJ disorder is associated with pain in the jaw and the muscles surrounding the jaw. However, other symptoms can manifest with TMJ disorder.

• Neck or facial pain
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Stiff jaw muscles
• Locking jaw
• Malocclusion or misalignment of upper and lower teeth
• Overbite

Treating your bite imbalance can provide relief from many of these symptoms, including headaches.

TMJ Causes

Various things can cause TMJ disorders, including the causes listed below.

• Arthritis
• Joint erosion
• Grinding and clenching jaw and teeth
• Structural problems in the jaw

If you clench your jaw and teeth, you may have experienced headaches. Several other things may contribute to TMJ disorders, including poor posture, orthodontics, prolonged stress, chronic sleeplessness, and a poor diet. More research is needed to determine the direct contribution of these underlying factors.

To diagnose TMJ disorder and headaches caused by clenching jaws, your dentist or doctor will examine your jaw for tenderness and swelling after asking you about symptoms you’re experiencing. In most cases, your dentist will take x-rays of the jaw.

Treatment for Jaw Pain and Headaches

Dr. David Lamothe at Smyrna Dental & Headache Center has developed a system for treating headaches caused by a clenching jaw. Through the use of in-office light therapy, electrical stimulation, muscle manipulation, and ultrasound therapy, patients suffering from headaches are finding much-needed relief. Dr. Lamothe will evaluate every patient with an examination and a patient questionnaire. A treatment plan is then created and customized for the patient’s needs.

Additionally, Dr. Lamothe will work with patients to teach them exercises that can be done at home. These exercises can help bring balance to your facial muscles and even help you retain your natural optimum jaw position.

Treatment for Headache caused by Clenching Jaw

Are you suffering from headaches caused by TMJ disorder or other conditions? Dr. Lamothe and the team at Smyrna Dental & Headache Center in Smyrna, Georgia, can help. Give us a call at (770) 432-1313 today or schedule a virtual appointment online.