Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problem. A headache resulting from TMJ dysfunction are usually Tension Headaches. These are the most common type of headaches; and it is often described as a feeling of wearing a hat two sizes too small, with pain in a ring around the head, or in the temple region (as shown to the left).
There are a few TMJ-related causes for tension headaches. Constant contraction of muscle fibers within a muscle, create tension, pressure or a tight feeling in the face and head, but constant tight muscle fibers prevent or reduce blood flow to that area. The body sends more blood to the areas and this can result an increase in general blood pressure to the muscles and head, sometimes referred to as vascular headaches. Clenching and grinding the teeth, which are TMJ symptoms, produce pain from the muscles in the head, leading to a headache.
Unfortunately, these headaches can be so frequent or severe that they are frequently misdiagnosed and treated as migraine headaches.
The pain from muscle headaches can be blocked with medications, or nerves cut with brain surgery or muscles somewhat relaxed with muscle and psychological therapy, but the cause of the disease and damage from the bad bite (known as malocclusion) will persist. Side effects with medications, complications from brain surgery, and limited results with muscle or psychological therapy do not correct the source of the problem.
Neuromuscular dentistry ensures the muscles are in a relaxed state because they do not have to work hard positioning the teeth to a strained bite. By putting the temporomandibular joint back into alignment and placing the jaw into its optimally relaxed position, neuromuscular dentistry can alleviate most headache problems related to TMJ, muscle, nerve and joint disorders.
Dr. Andrew Dela Rama is a neuromuscular dentist who has trained at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dentistry and can treat all kinds of headaches with both removable and fixed appliances. Dr. Dela Rama uses the newest technology in electromyography, computerized mandibular scanning, and joint sonography to help him diagnose and treat a multitude of TMD problems. Dr. Dela Rama's extensive training with the Myotronics K7 allows him to take measurements and see potential causes of TMD that most dentists cannot. The procedure is non invasive.
After Dr. Dela Rama has completed a full series of diagnostic tests, the information is analyzed to pinpoint what is triggering your TMD and possible solutions for remedy.
If you or someone who know has been suffering from dehabilitating tension or migraine headaches, please contact our office at (650) 878-0651. Patients typically report relief from their symptoms beginning after only a few treatment sessions. Since non invasive temporomandibular joint rehabilitation is included in headache relief, your medical insurance may cover these treatments.
