TMJ Migraine and Headache Treatment

What are TMJ Headaches and What Causes Them?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a common cause of chronic headaches and migraines. TMJ problems often lead to teeth clenching and grinding, creating tension throughout the jaw, face, forehead, neck, and surrounding nerves. Over time, this tension can contribute to frequent headaches, migraines, and ongoing facial discomfort.

Common symptoms associated with TMJ headaches and migraines include:

• Severe head pain
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Blurred vision
• Nausea or vomiting
• Vertigo or lightheadedness
• Headaches lasting longer than 24 hours
• Headaches and pain not relieved by over-the-counter medications

You don't have to live with chronic headaches and migraines. Our board-certified orofacial pain specialists in Glen Carbon, Illinois are here to help you find lasting relief. Call (618) 692-9980 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable, headache-free life.

What to Expect from TMJ Migraine and Headache Treatment

At Sunset Hills Family Dental, we understand that every patient's symptoms and experience are unique. Our experienced providers take the time to evaluate your condition, understand your symptoms, and develop a personalized treatment plan designed around your needs.

If your headaches or migraines are related to TMJ dysfunction, treatment options may include:

• Diagnostic nerve blocks: If there's a joint or nerve that is suspected to be causing your issues, we may perform a diagnostic nerve block by injecting a local anesthetic to block the nerve/joint and see if your pain is stemming from it – if it is, this will relieve pain and help determine the cause of your issues.
• Treatment nerve blocks: Targeted application of a local anesthetic to reduce inflammation and eliminate chronic, diagnosed nerve or joint pain. Results usually last for several weeks to months before another dose is required.
• Sub-occipital block: injecting a combination of a local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medicine to sub-occipital nerves in the neck and head to relieve chronic headaches, migraines, and facial pain.
• Greater auricular block: injecting a local anesthetic into the neck to block the greater auricular nerve to provide pain relief in the ears and neck.
• Medication: Prescription medications may help reduce pain and decrease the frequency of headaches and migraines when over-the-counter options are no longer effective.
• Wisdom tooth removal: If impacted or problematic wisdom teeth are contributing to your pain, treatment may help relieve chronic headaches and migraines.
• Oral appliance therapy: For patients who grind their teeth or clench their jaws, custom mouth guards or night guards can help reduce tension and protect the jaw.
• TMJ/TMD treatment: Dental splints and other oral appliances may help relieve pressure on the jaw joint and reduce headache symptoms caused by TMJ disorders.
• Injections: Treatments such as Botox® injections may help relax tight jaw muscles and reduce tension related to TMJ teeth grinding or clenching.
• Lifestyle guidance: Stress, anxiety, smoking, alcohol use, excessive caffeine, and other habits can contribute to jaw pain and headaches. Our team can recommend lifestyle changes to help support long-term relief.

Why Choose Sunset Hills Family Dental for Migraine and Headache Treatment in Glen Carbon, Illinois?

At Sunset Hills Family Dental, we understand how disruptive TMJ pain, chronic headaches, and migraines can be to your daily life. That's why we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized care focused on lasting relief and improved quality of life.

From your first visit, our team will work to make you feel comfortable, supported, and confident in your care. We are dedicated to helping you reduce pain, restore comfort, and get back to enjoying everyday life without constant headaches or jaw discomfort.

If you're ready to find relief from TMJ headaches or migraines, call (618) 692-9980 today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you feel better and live more comfortably.