Can Your Dentist Get Rid of Your Migraine Headaches?

Millions of Americans suffer from the debilitating effects of migraine headaches, which are more common in women and those with a family history of the condition. While some find relief from Triptan medications, others may benefit from alternative treatments from their dental professional, says the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD).

Studies have shown a strong correlation between dental health and migraine headaches, as even the slightest irregularity (like an abnormal bite) can lead to these headaches.

“Stress also causes many patients to clench their teeth,” says AACD president Dr. Jack Ringer. “This creates muscle tension in the head and neck area and in turn nerve stimulation leading to headaches.” An abnormal bite, where the top and bottom teeth don’t align properly, can also cause patients to grind or clench their teeth. Over time, this can contribute to temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and also cause migraines.

Another possible culprit is an underlying infection in the teeth or gums. Impacted wisdom teeth, if left untreated, may cause neck and jaw pain and lead to migraines. Fortunately, periodontal therapy, or in some cases a root canal, can eliminate infection and relieve this risk.

For more than two decades, NYC dentist Dr. David Blaustein has been offering migraine headache treatment for patients who have not found relief with other therapies. In some cases, neuromuscular dentistry to realign an abnormal bite or a simple oral appliance that prevents contact between the temporalis muscle and the teeth are extremely successful for migraine sufferers.

Are dental problems the root of your migraines?

There are many medical conditions that can cause migraines, but if you suffer from any of the following, a tooth or dental problem may be the underlying factor:

Waking up in the morning with painful jaw muscles
Discomfort while chewing gum
Grinding or clicking sound in your jaw
Headaches centered in the back of the neck or temples
Feeling that your bite isn’t correct or is changing
Frequent pain in the trapezius or upper shoulder muscles

A migraine attack can happen at any time, and may be characterized by the following symptoms:

Extreme pain in one or both sides of the head
Sensitivity to light
Visual disturbances known as aura
Blurred vision
Nausea
Lightheadedness
Pain that isn’t relieved with OTC headache medications
Headache that lasts up to 72 hours

If you’ve experienced one or more of these symptoms, your migraine headaches may be attributed to TMJ problems and/or dental issues. A thorough examination will help us determine whether you’d benefit from dental therapy with a tension suppression system..

Migraine headache treatment in NYC

Migraine sufferers often overlook dental problems as the possible root of their headaches, but many may benefit from oral appliance therapy – a custom plastic night guard—that has a proven success rate of 70 to 80 percent. Here at Chelsea Dental Aesthetics, we understand how migraines can undermine the quality of your life, leaving many sufferers feeling frustrated and without help.

Call 347-773-4917 to arrange a private consultation with Dr. Blaustein at his Midtown office to learn more about migraine headache treatment in Manhattan.

Author