If you live with debilitating migraine headaches, routine dental care may help. Often, migraine pain is related to grinding and clenching the teeth, usually while sleeping. This condition is called TMJ disorder, and around 70% of the population live with at least one symptom of this chronic issue.
Are you suffering from migraines? Keep reading to learn more about relief!
Migraine Headache Pain
If you are one of the millions suffering from migraine headache pain, you are not alone. Around 12% of the population have migraines due to TMJ, which is easily treated by your dental provider. TMJ involves clenching and grinding of teeth- treated with an easy-to-wear mouthguard and ending the pain of migraines for many.
Migraines and Your Teeth
So, how do your teeth contribute to the debilitating pain of a migraine headache? It is simple: when you grind and clench the teeth, it impacts the muscles of the jaw and head- often resulting in tooth sensitivity and severe headache pain. A mouthguard is custom-fitted by your dentist to wear over just the front teeth. This prevents the teeth from being able to make contact to grind- and it could alleviate your headache pain.
Some Migraine Symptoms
Not all headaches are migraines; some symptoms of a migraine include those before, during, and after a migraine episode.
Symptoms prior to migraines, or Prodrome symptoms:
- Constipation
- Mood swings
- Food cravings
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Excessive yawning
Symptoms before and during migraines, or Aura symptoms:
- Changes in vision
- Visual disturbances
- Hearing and tactile changes or sensations
- Trouble speaking or articulating
- Severe headache pain
Symptoms following a migraine, or Postdrome symptoms:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Confusion
- Dizziness
As for the symptomatic headaches associated with migraine pain, they are severe. Migraine pain differs from other types of headaches in that it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as vertigo or vomiting. A migraine headache is a throbbing pain, that occurs primarily on the back and on both sides of your head. If you are experiencing a migraine, you may be particularly sensitive to smells, noise, or light; contact your doctor to learn more if this sounds familiar.
Chronic migraines are classified among those that experience at least five headache days or episodes each month, or 15 every 90 days.
Experiencing symptoms of a migraine? Talk to your doctor for more prevention and treatment tips.
Talk to your dental provider at Old Mt Pleasant Dentistry, if you are living with migraine pain- or if you suspect that you are grinding your teeth while sleeping. Located in Mt Pleasant, SC, Old Mt Pleasant Dentistry is a reputable family practice that wants to help improve your quality of life. Call or visit to schedule your appointment today.
