The TMJ-Headache Connection

A misaligned bite can have consequences beyond the mouth. At the orthodontic offices of Dr. Gregory Ross, we also provide support for dental sleep medicine. By correcting bite problems, we can reduce the frequency with which patients get certain kinds of headaches.

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD or TMJ) are dysfunctions of the hinges that connect the lower jaw to the head. They often develop as a result of bruxism, or night time teeth grinding. There are several reasons why people may grind or clench their teeth, including obstructive sleep apnea and mental stress, but discomfort from misaligned bites is a contributing factor. As people strain their jaw muscles and wear down the cartilage in their temporomandibular joints, pain may radiate or be deferred to their shoulders, necks, and the tops of their heads.

By correcting misaligned teeth, we enable them to rest comfortably together while the patient sleeps. However, bruxism caused by other factors may still damage them, which is why we also assist patients with custom-fitted night guards. These oral appliances prevent the teeth from rubbing together. The aligners used in Invisalign treatment are worn at night and achieve the same effect.

To learn more about Ross Orthodontics, visit Smiles by Ross. Offices are located in Forest Lake, Minnesota and Hudson, Wisconsin.

 

TMD and Fibromyalgia

Orthodontists do a lot more than braces. At the offices of Dr. Gregory Ross, we provide treatments for people who are suffering from nighttime teeth grinding as a result of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD or TMJD). This behavior is done in response to pain in the joint which connects the jaw to the rest of the head, but it can worsen pain in the head, neck, and shoulder. TMD is also commonly associated with fibromyalgia, which makes it important for fibromyalgia patients to get assessed for TMD.

Fibromyalgia is a disease which causes pain throughout the body and problems with cognition and memory. It is poorly understood but believed to be neurological in nature. Besides TMD headaches, fibromyalgia also contributes to migraines. It is most often seen in women, although usually in ones who are older than those who have TMD alone. There are a number of pain-management therapies available for fibromyalgia patients, but it’s important to ensure that their bite alignment isn’t compromised by night time teeth grinding without worsening their discomfort. Night guards are a useful first step toward preventing teeth grinding, and if the teeth do need realignment, Invisalign can shift them with less pressure than traditional braces.

To learn more about Ross Orthodontics, visit Smiles by Ross. Offices are located in Forest Lake, Minnesota and Hudson, Wisconsin.

 

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD)

If you have chronic pain in your mouth or jaw area and/or hear a clicking or popping sound when you chew, then you may want to discuss temporomandibular joint disorder with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS. Located on each side of the head, our temporomandibular joints work together when we chew, speak or swallow and include muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. When these joints don’t work correctly, Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS may recommend fixing an uneven bite through orthodontic treatment.

TMJ/TMD symptoms include jaw joint pain, ear pain, muscle spasms in the face or neck, and/or difficulty chewing. If you are unable to open your jaw all the way, it’s time to discuss treatment options with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS. Depending on the individual case, treatment may only require a night guard or a mouth guard. TMJ can cause the teeth to grind which can lead to enamel wear and tear. It’s important to address the problem and seek treatment before it gets worse.

If you have questions or concerns regarding TMJ/TMD, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.smilesbyross.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory Ross, DDS call our Forest Lake, MN location at 651-464-6988 or our Hudson, WI location at 715-808-8379.