Link between TMJ disorders and migraines, innovative treatments at AZ-TMJ

AZ-TMJ is once again leading the way in innovative and effective treatments for severe cases of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD. AZ-TMJ has developed a variety of highly effective treatments to greatly reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches for a large percentage of sufferers. Approximately 16% to 17% of the population suffers from migraine headaches, which often have a debilitating effect on sufferers’ daily lives.

What many people suffering from chronic headaches or migraines do not know is that their head pain could possibly be caused by the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Oftentimes patients never consider TMJ as a possible cause, leading to frequent misdiagnoses.

When the TMJ becomes out of alignment, it quickly causes the muscles in your face, head, and neck to strain with every movement. Even while you are asleep your muscles are working to harder than normal to try to become “realigned” and the constant strain or contraction can quickly cause tension migraines.

“I have found that migraine headaches are often triggered by problems with patients’ jaw joints (TMJ),” said Dr. Stan Farrell. “Many migraine sufferers may be grinding their teeth or clenching their jaw during sleep or throughout the day. These symptoms often aggravate the Trigeminal Nucleus Caudalis, a key nerve center that can trigger migraine headaches.”

After a thorough exam and diagnosis, AZ-TMJ can frequently develop noninvasive, pain-relieving treatments that do not rely on the long-term use of pain-relieving medications. Migraines can be often avoided or greatly reduced through the use of a simple custom-made splint that allows the jaw joint to heal and reduces teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Additionally, the FDA has recently approved the use of Botox for treating chronic headaches.

AZ-TMJ is a clinic focused on the treatment of TMJ, severe headaches, and sleep apnea, all of which can be symptoms of an issue with the Temporomandibular Joint, which is where the jaw connects to the cranium. The clinic is led by Stan Farrell, DDS, FAAOP, who received his training in Orofacial Pain at UCLA. He graduated from the School of Dental and Oral Surgery at Columbia University. He is a Diplomate with the American Board of Orofacial Pain. Services provided by an Arizona licensed general dentist. For information regarding TMJ relief, visit the AZ-TMJ website at http://www.aztmj.com or call AZ-TMJ at (480) 945-3629.