TMJ Headache Treatment in Naperville, IL

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When you have a headaches or migraine would you think that your jaw could be the cause? The jaw, or specifically (TMJ), temporomandibular joint could be causing your headache or migraine. The TMJ is a hinge joint connecting the jaw to your skull base. This joint allows us to talk, laugh, swallow, yawn, and chew. This joint is supported by a lot of different muscles. Some of the muscles involved include the muscles of the throat, cheek, and side of the head which in turn connect with the muscles of the neck, shoulders and chest. Issues with TMJ are often caused by malocclusion of misalignment of the bite. This misalignment puts a lot of strain on the supporting and adjoining muscles which can potentially lead to headaches or migraines. It has been documented that people who clench or grind their teeth have a tendency to have more headaches and/or migraines.

What are some symptoms of TMJ?

  • Tight facial or jaw muscles
  • Facial pain
  • Clicking or popping in the jaw joint
  • Limited opening
  • Changes in the bite
  • Clenching teeth
  • Grinding teeth
  • Noises in the ear
  • Ear pain
TMJ treatment can provide a solution to the headaches and migraines you are having.

Risk factors of TMJ:

  • Different types of Arthritis
  • Jaw injury
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Osteoporosis
  • Rheumatologic concerns
  • Headaches
  • Stress
  • Long-term grinding/clenching of teeth
  • Certain connective tissue diseases
  • Chronic ear pain
  • Sleep apnea

Advanced Techniques

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses low levels of light to stimulate healing. For Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ), it is used to alleviate pain and inflammation caused by the disorder. The therapy operates on a cellular level by absorbing the laser light, which triggers biological reactions that promote the healing process. It's a pain-free treatment that can offer relief to those suffering from TMJ without the need for surgery or medication.

Tensing

A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit is often used as a non-invasive treatment method for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. It works by sending low-voltage electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin near the affected area. These pulses help reduce muscle tension and stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, thus providing relief from TMJ-related pain. Use of a TENS unit may help alleviate symptoms such as jaw pain or headaches and improve jaw function, contributing to an overall better quality of life.

Unlockings

If you have a locked jaw or limited mouth opening, you may benefit from an unlocking procedure. Dr. Patel conducts thorough evaluations to see if an unlocking procedure might be successful. If that determination is made, the procedure is simple. An injection or anesthetic is administered directly into the jaw joint, and with a series or jaw manipulations Dr. patel is able to unlock the jaw and restore mobility. In some cases, multiple attempts are necessary, and PRF therapy is recommended to reduce inflammation and increase healing.

Diagnosis is a step before treatment.

If you have a disc joint misalignment, it is a true structural issue and needs to be addressed. Complementary and alternative medicine techniques (acupuncture, chiropractic, relaxation, and biofeedback) may help in the short term, but long term therapy would include occlusal appliances with possible physical therapy.
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