A Look at Several Migraine Treatment Options Your Dentist Can Help You With
Although there are several treatment options for migraines, not all of them offer prolonged relief. Some treatments depend on painkilling drugs, and others on costly procedures that are only effective for a certain period. But there are treatments that address some of the underlying causes of migraines so you can achieve ultimate relief from the pain. Dental migraine treatments offer a more permanent solution to reduce or eliminate migraines altogether. So, if you’re tired of suffering from migraines, ask your dentist about these causes and see if you can benefit from their migraine treatment options.
TMJ Disorders and Migraines
If you suffer from migraines, you may also have a Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ disorders can increase your chances of getting migraines. The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw—mandibular—to the skull’s temporal bone. TMJ disorders involve pain in the jaw, face, and neck, causing many uncomfortable symptoms, including dizziness, earaches, headaches, and migraines.
Braces and Aligners
Misaligned teeth are a common cause of TMJ disorders. If you have misaligned teeth, you may experience trouble biting, chewing, and closing your mouth comfortably. Depending on the severity of the misalignment, your dentist may recommend braces or aligners to reposition your teeth. This treatment will help you chew better, have a straighter smile, and reduce any pain associated with a TMJ disorder.
Stabilization Splints
If you grind your teeth, your dentist might recommend that you use a stabilization splint while you sleep. Your dentist will fit this mouthpiece to your teeth to comfortably align your jaw. A stabilization splint also prevents you from clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth while you sleep. Teeth clenching and grinding can trigger tension, abnormal muscle contractions in your jaw, and TMJ disorders that can all ultimately lead to migraines.
Reconstruction
Mouth reconstruction can help patients who have more than one serious problem with their teeth and jaw. Your dentist will only recommend this as a migraine treatment if there are a number of dental factors causing you chronic pain and distress. Your dentist will complete each phase of the mouth reconstruction at different times to allow for proper healing time and function. Reconstructive dental procedures include replacing missing teeth, repairing damaged teeth, and correcting irregular bites and poorly held jaw joints.
The debilitating pain and symptoms of migraines can negatively reduce one’s quality of life. But there are treatments available to address the causes of migraines and help relieve the pain. Speak to your dentist about these migraine treatment options so you can start to enjoy a more pain-free life.
