You may not have thought to tell your dentist that you have chronic headaches or migraines, but you should! In some cases, headaches are caused by malocclusion of the jaw. Known as TMJ disorder, misalignment of the jaw joints puts stress on related nerves and muscles. This can cause pain that ranges from moderate to severe.
Besides headaches, TMJ disorder contributes to chronic earaches, popping in the jaw joints, inability to open and close the mouth fully, and tingling extremities. Overworked muscles and disgruntled nerves can lead to clenching and grinding, as well. This bad habit is called bruxism. To combat TMJ disorder and bruxism – and to eliminate painful symptoms – Dr. Stephens and Dr. Gatewood prescribe the non-invasive oral appliance known as NTI-tss. (more…)