When many people experience a headache, they don’t often consider it a sign of something more serious. Once the pain subsides, the memory of the headache and worry of what it might mean can often fade away, as well. However, if your headaches return often, or get increasingly worse until they develop into migraines, then you might start to wonder more about why. For many people, seemingly random headaches and migraines can actually be signs of a less obvious jaw dysfunction, also known as TMJ disorder.

Why TMJ disorder affects more than your jaws

TMJ is an acronym that refers to your temporomandibular joint. The pair of TMJs on either side of your jaw are responsible for your jaw’s movement, which is why many of the symptoms related to it involve discomfort or problems with your bite’s function. However, your TMJs are part of an intricate network of joints, muscles, nerves, tendons, and tissues that contribute to this function. When they don’t work properly, they can impact much more than just your jaw. Among the many different symptoms that could warn you of TMJ disorder, chronic headaches and migraines could be one of the most noticeable.

The development of headaches, migraines, and more

While you might not notice immediately if your jaw joints become damaged or misaligned, the other symptoms of the dysfunction can become more difficult to miss the longer your condition remains untreated. Because of this, TMJ headaches may seem minor and fleeting at first, which can contribute to the misconception that they’re nothing to worry about. However, you might also notice changes to how your bite feels whenever you open and close it, or popping sensations in your jaw joints when you bite and chew. Along with your headaches, these could be indications that it’s time to schedule a visit and examination with your dentist.

Treating your TMJ disorder and relieving the pain

Treating TMJ disorder and its related symptoms is much simpler once you know it’s the cause. Yet, it still requires highly personalized treatment, as TMJ disorder can describe a variety of specific conditions and have a wide range of potential contributing factors that differ between patients. If you experience chronic headaches, migraines, and/or other TMJ pain, then find relief by scheduling a visit with your dentist as soon as possible.

Learn if your headaches are related to TMJ disorder

Chronic headaches and migraines can be among the first signs people notice that their TMJs may not be functioning properly. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600. We serve patients from Conroe and all neighboring communities.