Unfortunately there are other symptoms of TMJ that are related to jaw misalignment that can also cause great pain. These include generalized facial pain, ear pain, sinus pressure, and chronic tension or migraine-style headaches. Sadly, sometimes when these symptoms are present, their real cause may be overlooked entirely, preventing proper treatment.
How Does Jaw Misalignment Causes Head Pain?
TMJ can contribute to headaches and other facial pain through increased muscle tension. Jaw misalignment and can cause overuse or misuse of muscles, producing painful tension in all surrounding areas of the face. This tension can also place pressure on the trigeminal nerve. Pressure on this nerve will result in pain throughout the face and head, pain that can only be addressed by addressing the root of the problem.
When the root of your pain is your TMJ, medications may serve to numb discomfort, but cannot stop it from reoccurring. Only customized TMJ treatments provided by an experienced dentist can restore alignment and help produce long-term comfort.
DTR Treatment for TMJ
Our office offers several types of treatments for TMJ pain, headaches, and other types of head pain including an exclusive form of therapy called Disclusion Time Reduction (DTR). DTR is proven to be much faster and more permanent than other traditional pain therapies, such as mouthguards and appliances.
Using computer-guided technology, called a T-Scan system, we can compile data on a TMJ/TMD patient’s timed and force bites inside the mouth. By using the information collected, I can easily correct the time and force bite, and misalignment problems. In most patients, many of the TMJ pain, headaches, and other head pain symptoms go away within the first week after treatment has begun!
Is it Time For an Appointment at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®?
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.