TMJ Headaches

Please call Dr Finkelstein on 9262 7778 to receive dental professional advice on the relief of Headaches and Migraines

Why do we get TMJ Headaches?

How can a Neuromusculare Dentist Help You with the Treatment of Tension Headaches and Migraines?

TMJ Headaches are frequently an indicator of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) syndrome. TMJ causes tension headaches, which are the most common type of headache. The pain is often described as a throbbing sensation in a ring around the head, as though one is wearing a hat two sizes too small. Unfortunately, these headaches are often misdiagnosed and treated as migraine headaches due to their frequency and severity.

There are many ways in which TMJ can cause tension headaches.

The continual tightening of particular muscle fibers reduces blood flow to the face and head, creating tension, pressure or a tight feeling in that area. The body sends more blood to the areas and this can cause an increase in the blood pressure in the head, resulting in vascular headaches. Muscular pain in the head can also be caused by clenching and grinding of the teeth, which are TMJ symptoms.

There are multiple remedies for TMJ headaches: pain from muscle headaches can be dulled with medications, nerves can be cut with brain surgery or muscles can be somewhat relaxed with muscle and psychological therapy. However, these treatment methods do not address the major cause of the tension headaches, the misaligned bite (malocclusion). Neuromuscular dentistry relaxes the muscles by ensuring they do not have to strain to position the teeth in an unnatural bite. Additionally, the side effects of medications, complications from brain surgery, and insufficient results of muscle or psychological therapy are avoided.

By realigning the temporomandibular joint and returning the jaw to its ideal position, neuromuscular dentistry can provide relief from headaches caused by TMJ, muscle, nerve and joint disorders.


Dr Michael Finkelstein BDS