Treatment for TMJ headaches in Rochester MI

Can your jaw cause you a headache? The answer might surprise you. Headaches can occur due to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The disorders related to the TMJ are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

You should choose a qualified and experienced dentist who can provide safe and effective treatment for TMD. Dr. John Aurelia (John L. Aurelia, DDS, PLLC) provides treatment for headaches in Rochester, MI to suitable candidates.

Symptoms

TMJ headaches are like the headaches caused by stress and may occur in the same region repeatedly. But, they have atypical symptoms including:

• Stiffness of jaw and facial muscles
• Facial or jaw aches
• Jaw popping and clicking
• Changes in the way the upper and lower jaws meet

Treatment Options

Understanding the condition is essential for accurate and effective treatment. In most cases, some simple, time-tested remedies can offer relief to those suffering from TMJ. These may include:

Altering Lifestyle: Making changes in jaw usage can bring great relief. Some of the recommended changes are:

• Choosing soft foods which are easy to chew
• De-stressing – a stressed person often clenches his or her jaws, causing pain.
• Abstain from chewing gum, yawning, and other unnecessary uses of jaw.

Other remedies include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) offer brief relief from pain in the jaws and head.
• Exercising the jaws reduces the symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the face.

If these options fail, consult a qualified dentist. They can suggest several non-surgical solutions, which should relieve headaches due to temporomandibular disorder.

Customized Mouth Guard

The dentist may recommend a customized mouth guard which will:

• Readjust the jaw bite
• Protect teeth from jaw clenching and grinding during sleep.

Occlusal Splint: It is a highly effective mouth guard that helps the jaws to shift to an optimal location where the muscles are most relaxed. The mouth guard’s action is like that of a splint. Relaxing the jaws helps to ease the stress on their actions and leads to healing, which results in relief from the headaches.

Due to the mouth guard’s support, the jaw is repositioned. The new position does not put any strain on the facial or jaw muscles, removing TMJ related aches and pains. The period of use of the occlusal splint varies from patient to patient with a small number needing regular use.

Treating TMJ in time is necessary to:

• Avoid subsequent prolonged treatment to rectify long-term damage caused by TMJ.
• Remove TMJ-related head and jaw aches and sensitivity of teeth.

TMJ headaches – a perspective

Despite the discomfort they cause, TMJ headaches are quite easily treatable. If you notice any of the above listed symptoms, have a word with your dentist. Getting professional help can ensure that your problem is diagnosed correctly and that you get the right treatment, along with sustainable relief from pain.

Dr. John Aurelia
Connect with John L. Aurelia on Linkedin.

Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.