HEADACHES, JAW PAIN AND OTHER SYMPTOMS OF TMJ/TMD

Migraine-like headaches and chronic jaw pain are among the most widely reported symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD), a common disorder that is often misdiagnosed by physicians without training in the field of neuromuscular dentistry.

St. Joseph, Michigan, dentist Dr. Sven Erickson has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ/TMD backed by postgraduate education at the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI). If you suffer from recurring headaches that have otherwise defied explanation, please call Modern Dentistry Associates at 269-264-4388 to schedule your TMJ/TMD assessment; we welcome patients from the Niles and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and South Bend, Indiana, areas.

The painful symptoms of TMJ/TMD stem from the regions where the jaw connects to the skull. Within these tiny connective areas are the temporomandibular joints and the trigeminal nerves, the latter of which register sensation throughout your face. When a misaligned jaw or bite condition puts undue pressure on this sensitive network of joints, nerves, muscles and bones, intense headaches, jaw discomfort and other symptoms may arise.

TMJ/TMD headaches are so severe that they are often reported as migraines. In those with TMJ/TMD, these headaches and jaw pain are typically accompanied by additional symptoms including:

1. Jaw clicking or popping

2. Jaw sticking or locking

3. Neck and shoulder pain

4. Ringing in the ears/tinnitus

5. Facial pain

6. Numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers

There are a number of TMJ/TMD treatments available to correct the source of your condition and relieve your discomfort. The best treatment option for you depends on cause and severity of your individual condition; Dr. Erickson will recommend a custom treatment suited to your unique needs.

For additional information on TMJ/TMD diagnosis and treatment, please see our Neuromuscular Dentistry page.

If you or a loved one suffers from chronic headaches and other TMJ/TMD symptoms, please contact Modern Dentistry Associates today to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Erickson. We welcome patients from the St. Joseph, Niles and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and South Bend, Indiana, areas.