Are you experiencing morning headaches, jaw pain, and discomfort that just won’t go away?

Millions of Americans miss work, make countless visits to the doctor, and overspend on pain relievers each year due to headaches and migraines. What many people don’t realize is that some headaches, (especially those that occur when you wake up in the morning) are caused by TMJ Dysfunction. These types of headaches can be successfully treated and often cured by a qualified restorative dentist. Simple dental procedures and splint therapy can have you back to normal in no time.

Chester Springs TMJ Dentist, Dr. Jason Petkevis

Dr. Jason Petkevis has completed extensive post-graduate training to focus much of his practice on treating adult patients with complex dental problems. Many of these patients have avoided the dentist for ten years or more. Using modern techniques, Dr. Petkevis is able to restore health, function, and beauty to the mouth with treatments that are pain-free, affordable, and long-lasting.

What Causes Headaches?

Stress is a common cause of headaches. Other conditions such as malocclusion (unbalanced bite) and TMJ dysfunction can contribute to headaches or migraines. When the teeth do not make proper contact and the jaws are not in proper alignment, it creates stress and tension in the muscles and face, causing headaches to occur. Tension in the jaw and mouth throughout the day also contributes to chronic headaches and migraines.

Are Your Headaches Caused By TMJ Dysfunction?

Headaches are the most common sign of TMJ dysfunction. The reason TMJ headaches tend to occur in the morning is because of teeth clenching and teeth grinding that occurs while you sleep.

TMJ Headache Symptoms

• Pain in the temples or back of the head
• Morning headaches
• Pain in the shoulders, neck, and upper back
• Migraine headaches
• Teeth grinding, teeth clenching

TMJ Headache Therapy

Dr. Petkevis will perform a bite analysis to evaluate your jaw joints and determine if your headaches are caused by TMJ dysfunction. Treatment for TMJ Headaches can range from simple oral appliance therapy, using a night guard or splint, to advanced bite correction therapy which involves reshaping the teeth so that they make proper contact.

TMJ Mouthguard

Teeth Grinding is closely linked with TMJ dysfunction. A TMJ mouthguard keeps your teeth aligned and prevents the top and bottom teeth from coming into contact with each other while you sleep, preventing teeth grinding. Dr. Petkevis is able to custom make a mouthguard that fits comfortably in your mouth.

Bite Correction

If a mouthguard is unsuccessful in correcting teeth grinding, some patients benefit from bite correction. Dr. Petkevis will realign the teeth so that the upper and lower teeth come into contact with each other correctly. Bite correction can include a number of procedures including tooth bonding, dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or dental implants.

Frequent Headaches FAQs

How does a TMJ disorder cause headaches?

When you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, the jaw muscles will tense up. If that takes place for many hours over the course of a night, it will not only strain those muscles, but it will also spread to other muscles in your cheeks and temple. This can result in headaches each time you wake up.

How do I know if I have TMJ or just a headache?

If your headaches are coupled with other symptoms of TMJ, then you may have a TMJ disorder. This includes clicking of the jaw, restricted jaw movement, a sore jaw, worn down teeth from grinding, or pain anywhere else in the face. If you suffer from morning headaches and other signs of TMJ, visit Dr. Petkevis for a full evaluation to learn if your headaches are caused by a TMJ dysfunction.

Can my dentist near me help relieve my frequent headaches?

Headaches are a common symptom of TMJ disorders. Your dentist is actually a great person to see if you suspect this is a TMJ issue. They can use advanced technology and techniques to determine if the jaw is misaligned. You will be able to discuss your full list of symptoms including your frequent headaches. Dr. Petkevis offers several treatments to help you find relief from all your TMJ symptoms including headaches.

Get relief from frequent headaches today. A simple bite analysis and consultation can reveal whether or not your headaches are caused by TMJ dysfunction. You owe it to yourself to schedule a consultation with Chester Springs dentist Dr. Jason Petkevis. Call 610–400–1459 or schedule an appointment online.