Poor oral health can result in other physical health conditions from migraines to heart disease. In fact, studies have shown that there is a significant link between migraines and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD). Let’s take a look at why treating migraines can help improve TMD symptoms.

What is the link between TMD and migraines?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where your lower jaw connects to the skull. Each of us have two TMJs. However, if the joint is out of alignment, it causes the muscles to strain in the face, head, and neck, even while at rest. It also causes increased blood flow, which increases

blood pressure. All of these symptoms can cause very painful TMJ headaches and migraines. If you think that you may have Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, contact us at Craniofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Center today. Together we can provide you with options for treating migraines to improve TMD symptoms.

Understanding TMD symptoms

If you experience any of the following symptoms of TMD, you should seek treatment as soon as possible:

  • Sensitive/sore teeth.
  • Sore jaw muscles.
  • Pain in the head, neck, and shoulders.
  • Facial pain.
  • Headaches/migraines.
  • Ringing in the ears.
  • Locking of jaw.
  • Clicking/popping of jaw.
  • Limited jaw movement.
  • Worn/chipped teeth.


What is a migraine headache?

Migraines are a chronic disorder characterized by recurrent moderate to severe headaches, usually affecting one side of the head, and accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound, and aggravated by physical activity.

Here are some important facts about migraines to keep in mind:

  • One-third of sufferers see an aura before the pain starts.
  • 10 percent of the world population is affected by migraines at some point in life.
  • Migraines can be triggered by stress, hunger, or fatigue.
  • Medications are only considered successful if they reduce the frequency or severity by 50 percent.
  • Migraines with auras double the risk of ischemic strokes.
  • Most migraines commonly start between ages 15 and 24, and are most frequent between ages 35 to 45.
  • Migraines are responsible for one percent of total U.S. medical disability.
  • 25 percent of American families include at least one member who suffers from migraines.

At Craniofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Center of Georgia, treatment for TMD often includes oral appliance therapy. Dr. Mayoor Patel will work with his team to properly diagnose TMD, discover the causes of your TMD and create an individualized treatment plan that best meets your needs.