Headaches and Neck Pain: When to See a Specialist for TMJ Disorder Treatment in Beverly Hills, California
Beverly Hills, CA

If you have been suffering from constant headaches and pain in your neck, you might be dealing with something more serious than mere stress or tension. Symptoms like these are commonly associated with TMJ disorder, which is usually related to the jaw and its involved muscles. The symptoms of TMJ range from severe jaw pain to problems with chewing and unexplained headaches or neck stiffness.

Though this may seem bearable once in a while, when chronic symptoms arise, TMJ disorder treatment may be necessary. TMJ is one of the most common conditions that is left undiagnosed or misdiagnosed; however, it is treatable with appropriate care from a professional specialist.

Understanding the signs that you have TMJ disorder is a step in the right direction. In this blog, you will learn about the signs of TMJ disorder, how treatment can help, and when to seek professional care for long-lasting relief.

What is TMJ Disorder and How Does it Cause Pain?

TMJ simply means the temporomandibular joint. This is a certain hinge that connects your jaw to the side of the skull. It allows the jaw to open and move smoothly during speech, chewing, and yawning. Dysfunction or misalignment of the TMJ can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and head. TMJ disorder symptoms can include clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, pain while chewing, or even jaw locking.

The association of headaches or neck pain with TMJ disorder is not immediate in many sufferers of the condition. TMJ headache treatment aims to reduce tension in the jaw and neck muscles, which eventually helps alleviate the pain associated with the disorder. If you frequently get headaches with a tender jaw or restricted jaw movement, this might be the key to solving your discomfort.

Can TMJ Treatment Relieve Headaches and Neck Pain?

To diagnose the actual cause of headaches and neck pain, seeking TMJ treatment near you is essential. This usually consists of a comprehensive examination performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, during which your symptoms are evaluated to determine whether TMJ is the cause of your condition. Treatment can range from simple exercises or adjustments in lifestyle to more advanced therapies involving physical therapy, night guards, or even surgery for severe cases.

Aside from pain reduction, proper TMJ disorder treatment in Beverly Hills, California, may improve jaw function, making everyday tasks such as speaking and eating much easier. In fact, many patients do report considerable improvement with appropriate treatment plans, both at home and professionally.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for TMJ Disorder?

Knowing when to see a specialist will make all the difference in ensuring you don’t suffer permanent damage from TMJ disorder. If you have ongoing headaches, neck pain, or jaw discomfort that isn’t improving with basic self-care, it might be time to seek TMJ headache treatment from a specialist. A qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon will diagnose the condition accurately and come up with a treatment plan tailored to suit you.

Sometimes, disregarding TMJ symptoms may lead to permanent misalignment of the jaw, teeth grinding, or even hearing problems due to strained ear muscles. Everything changed when your jaw started clicking, locking, or causing pain during its usual motion; now it is time to see a specialist.

How to Cure TMJ Disorder Permanently?

While some people may find relief from TMJ disorder symptoms with lifestyle changes or at-home treatments, others may need professional care to cure it permanently. Advanced therapies, such as Botox injections or dental splints, may be used to relieve tension and realign the jaw, decreasing pain and preventing future problems. Surgery may be required in severe cases to restore appropriate function to the TMJ.

Remember, your best course of treatment depends on your symptoms and the severity of your disorder.

Find Relief with Professional Care

If you are searching for TMJ treatment in Beverly Hills, California, to reduce headaches, neck aches, or jaw tension, wait no more. Appropriate treatment by a professional oral and/or maxillofacial surgeon is vital for identifying the source of the problem. This way, you can get the personalized treatment you need.

At Beverly Hills Oral & Facial Surgeon, we diagnose and treat TMJ disorders using state-of-the-art techniques and the latest treatments. Our caring staff is here to help you find the relief you deserve so that you can start enjoying comfort in your life again. Give us a call today to begin the journey into a tomorrow without pain!

FAQs

1. What are the common symptoms of TMJ disorder?
   TMJ disorder can cause a variety of symptoms, including frequent headaches, jaw pain, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. You might also experience clicking or popping sounds when moving your jaw, along with neck pain. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to speak or eat comfortably.
2. Can TMJ cause chronic headaches?
   Yes, TMJ disorder can lead to chronic headaches due to muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and head. This tension can cause frequent or even debilitating headaches, which often feel like tension headaches. If you notice that your headaches are consistent with jaw discomfort or clicking sounds, TMJ could be the cause.
3. How is TMJ diagnosed?
   A diagnosis of TMJ disorder is typically made by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a dentist specializing in this condition. They will conduct a physical exam, checking the range of motion in your jaw and evaluating any sounds, such as clicking or popping. They may also ask about your symptoms, such as jaw pain or headaches, to determine the best course of treatment.
4. Is TMJ treatment available near me?
   Yes, treatment for TMJ is available through many dental and medical professionals, primarily oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Many of these specialists are trained to diagnose and treat TMJ disorder using a variety of methods, from non-invasive therapies like physical therapy to surgical options for severe cases. You can find a qualified TMJ specialist near you by searching online or consulting with your primary care provider.
5. What can I do at home for TMJ pain relief?
   To relieve TMJ pain at home, you can start with gentle jaw exercises that help improve mobility and reduce tension. Applying warm compresses to the jaw can also provide comfort by relaxing tight muscles. Additionally, it’s helpful to avoid hard or chewy foods that require excessive jaw movement, as they can aggravate your symptoms.
6. Can TMJ be cured permanently?
   While TMJ cannot always be “cured” permanently, it can often be managed effectively with treatments ranging from physical therapy to dental appliances. In severe cases, surgical procedures may provide lasting relief, especially for those with structural jaw issues. Your healthcare provider will help determine the best treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms.