Headaches aren’t something that anyone enjoys, especially if they’re chronic and happen constantly. But what’s causing these constant headaches? It may actually be problems with your teeth and jaw. Dr. William Harper of Coastal Virginia Sleep Solutions discusses teeth grinding and TMJ treatment in Williamsburg, VA.
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint and the source of the pain you’re feeling. TMJ can come on due to a variety of different factors, and patients usually have multiple when they’ve developed the condition. It’s not something that can ever be officially cured, but there are ways to help so that it doesn’t impact your daily life. You can live TMJ pain-free.
Chronic headaches are just one sign that you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. Other frequent symptoms include pain in the jaw and it locking up or popping. You may have tension in pain in your facial and neck muscles. It can also be noticeable in the way you feel when you wake up. If you’re constantly tired and fatigued and particularly have headaches upon waking, those are red flags for TMJ.
TMJ conditions can develop for a variety of reasons. Many times there isn’t just one thing that causes TMJ problems. It’s a combination of various factors a patient may have. One of the most common ones is a habit of grinding or clenching the teeth. This often happens while you’re sleeping, contributing to the morning pain and headaches. It can also happen during the day when you don’t even realize it.
Anxiety and stress can also play a large part. You’re more likely to clench your teeth if you’re stressed than you are otherwise. Certain medications you may be taking for depression or pain can contribute as well. Various things that you may not think would be connected can cause it. These include allergies, gastric reflux, sinus problems, posture problems, and occupational hazards.
At your TMJ consultation, we’ll ask you for information to help us diagnose the problem. You’ll be questioned about symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors that can contribute to TMJ. Dr. Harper will also do a physical evaluation of the TMJ area to see if and where you have pain in the joint. He’ll also assess if you’re in danger of further damage because of your TMJ condition and see how he can help remedy it.
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