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There is a very good chance that, at some point in your life, you’ve experienced a headache. They are common, and often occur for no discernible reason, but when they occur chronically, there is often an underlying reason that must be addressed. Earaches, shoulder and neck pain, and other discomfort around the head and neck area may not typically compel you to visit your dentist. However, today we explain why your dentist’s office may be exactly where you’ll find relief, particularly if your headaches are caused by TMJ disorder.

Understanding TMJ Disorder

Although your teeth and gums comprise a large part of your dental health, the power that drives them is essential to their proper function. Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are the large joints that connect your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull. Along with the muscles that surround them, these joints allow your jaw to move any which way it must to complete its task (biting, chewing, speaking, etc.).

Undue pressure or excessive stress can cause these joints to become misaligned, which can force your jaw muscles into overdrive just to keep your jaw straight when you chew or speak. The discomfort that emanates from damaged or misaligned TMJs can manifest itself in a number of areas, including your ears, face, head, neck, shoulders, teeth, and jaw. Sometimes debilitating, this pain is referred to as TMJ disorder (sometimes TMD).

Other Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

If you suffer from one or any of the following symptoms, speak with your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a consultation.

  • Chronic headaches or earaches that seemingly have no cause
  • Sore or tender muscles in the face, neck, shoulders, or jaws when speaking or eating
  • Difficulty opening and/or closing your mouth fully
  • Increased instances of damaging dental issues (i.e., tooth decay, cracks, etc.)
  • Inflammation (swelling) on one or both sides of your face.

Riverside Dental Group and Dental Associate Offices Serves a Community Near You!

Our dentists look forward to caring for you and every member of your family with a comprehensive selection of services. We will maintain and improve your oral health with a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, restorative, implant, and emergency dentistry techniques. We also specialize in endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and orthodontics, serving patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.