Headaches and migraines can be caused by jaw pain. Constantly clenching and grinding your teeth can act as triggers for headaches, the type that lead to migraines. You may be grinding your teeth at night or during the day in times of stress and not even be aware of it.
If you are experiencing headaches and jaw pain, schedule a visit to AH Smiles for an oral examination. Dr. Brent Engelberg and our dental care team can work with you to determine if you have developed TMJ Disorder. We offer a range of treatment options for TMJ that are designed to alleviate your symptoms and restore health and function to the jaw.
What is TMJ and What Causes TMJ Jaw Pain?
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) allows movement for chewing and talking. The joint connects the lower jaw and the bone on the side of the skull. This allows movement both up and down as well as side to side. It’s one of the most complex joints in the body and can be difficult to treat effectively if the joint is severely damaged.
What Can Cause My Headaches or TMJ?
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- Wearing and Possibly Tearing Of The Joint
- Traum To The Head Or Face
- Uneven Bite Cause By Crooked Teeth
- Stress
Some Exercises That You Can Try At Home To Help Relieve TMJ Symptoms
- Jaw Stretch
- Use your fingertips to massage your jaw muscles in small circular motions. Now open your mouth as wide as you can. Hold your stretch for 10 seconds, and then relax your jaw. Repeat 10 times.
- The Yawn-Sigh
- Open your mouth as wide as you can, taking a deep yawn. As you inhale, stretch your jaw muscles and tighten your shoulders. Gradually exhale and relax your muscles completely. Repeat the exercise a few times.
- Goldfish Exercise
- Keep your tongue on the roof of your mouth, placing one finger on your TMJ and the other on your chin. Drop your lower jaw entirely and back. Repeat six times to complete one set.
- Resisted Opening & Closing Of Your Mouth
- Place your thumb on your chin and open your mouth slowly. Push gently against your chin for resistance. Hold for six seconds, and then close your mouth slowly.
- Progressive Relaxation
- Clasp your jaw as tight as you can, then allow your jaw to fall open. Keep your hand under your chin and press gently as you open your jaw, then let your jaw relax. Then, move your jaw to the right and relax for a while. And Repeat.
Schedule An Appointment
If you are experiencing Jaw Pain, you may be experiencing symptoms of TMJ. If the above exercises do not help, please contact our Arlington Heights, IL dentist office today to learn more about how we can help. To make an appointment at AH Smiles, call 847.230.9703 or schedule an appointment online.