San Francisco and Marin CA
Recurring headaches can have many causes, but it’s easy to overlook your jaw as the source of your pain. You might actually be experiencing headaches related to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
The TMJ is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, enabling essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint moves out of its natural alignment, it can lead to TMJ disorder, which often results in chronic headaches and other discomforts.
One major factor that can contribute to TMJ issues is stress. High stress levels often lead to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, whether during sleep or subconsciously throughout the day. This excessive tension tightens the muscles around your jaw, which can radiate pain to your head and trigger TMJ headaches.
Recognizing Symptoms of a TMJ Headache
Headaches have many causes, but TMJ-related headaches often come with specific symptoms, including:
- Facial Pain – Injury or strain to the muscles around the TMJ can cause inflammation and pain that spreads from your jaw to your temples, cheeks, ears, and even down your neck and shoulders.
- Bite Issues – If your bite feels off or your teeth don’t meet properly when your mouth is closed, it’s a strong sign that your TMJ may be misaligned.
- Snoring – Shifts in your lower jaw can affect your tongue’s position, causing it to block your airway and result in snoring.
- Jaw Popping or Clicking – Noises like popping or clicking when opening or closing your mouth often indicate your TMJ is not functioning smoothly. Even without pain, this is a signal to seek professional care to prevent worsening problems.
Managing TMJ Headache Pain at Home
If you recognize these symptoms, here are some ways to help ease your discomfort:
- Avoid hard or chewy foods that strain your jaw
- Minimize excessive jaw movements
- Apply ice packs to the jaw area for up to 15 minutes to reduce inflammation
- Practice gentle jaw stretches or exercises
- Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin as needed
Find Lasting Relief from TMJ Headaches at Glen Park Dental
While these self-care tips may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of your TMJ issues. At Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, our experienced team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders with personalized care plans tailored to your needs.
We combine advanced diagnostics with compassionate treatment to help you find lasting relief from TMJ headaches and associated symptoms. Don’t let anxiety and stress continue to control your pain—take the first step toward healing today.
Schedule your consultation with Glen Park Dental:
Phone: (415) 799-3900
Address: 4 Joost Ave, San Francisco, CA 94131
