TMJ and Migraine Relief

We’ll Make the Pain Go Away
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located underneath your ears where your lower jaw is attached to your head. This joint allows patients to move their mouth and jaw in multiple directions. If the TMJ is irritated, impaired, or weakened, it’s likely you’ll be diagnosed with temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
A common sign of TMD is migraines, or recurrent headaches that cause moderate to severe pain. It’s typically described as a throbbing sensation and focused on one area of the head. Migraines may also stimulate nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
Fortunately, Dr. Mary Sue Stonisch has effective treatments for TMD and migraines. She’ll personally work with you to get to the root of the problem and find the best course of treatment for you.
What Causes TMD and Migraines?
There are many symptoms associated with TMD, such as:
- Stiff jaw muscles
- Jaw, face, and neck pain
- Clicking noises when moving your jaw
- Lockjaw, or being unable to open your jaw
- Misaligned teeth
- Headaches or migraines
At the same time, there are a number of factors that can lead to migraines. These may include:
- Cervical spine misalignment
- Nutritional imbalances
- Pinched airways
- Nutritional imbalances
- Lack of sleep or significant rest
While all of these symptoms can result in migraines, one of the most common causes is bruxism, or repeatedly clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night while you sleep. If left untreated, bruxism may eventually wear down your enamel, leading to tooth loss and even TMD — which, in turn, can trigger migraines.

The Kois Deprogrammer
To correct your bite problem, Dr. Stonisch may recommend a Kois deprogrammer to kickstart your treatment. It’s a simple, effective device that’s similar to an orthodontic retainer, and it’s worn for two to three weeks for 24 hours a day. You can remove it when it’s time for a meal or to brush your teeth, however.
The Kois deprogrammer is positioned on the roof of your mouth and secured with a wire that fits around the outer surface of your teeth. This device “deprograms” tense jaw muscles by preventing your teeth from touching, allowing your muscles to relax.
After the required treatment time is completed, your muscles will no longer push on the jaw joint and cause discomfort or pain. The deprogrammer won’t solve your bite problem, but it allows Dr. Stonisch to assess your bite and determine the best solution for you.
While all of these symptoms can result in migraines, one of the most common causes is bruxism, or repeatedly clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night while you sleep. If left untreated, bruxism may eventually wear down your enamel, leading to tooth loss and even TMD — which, in turn, can trigger migraines.
Get Your Free ConsultationWith Dr. Stonisch Today
Dr. Stonisch teaches at the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and she also serves as a mentor for the Kois Center where every course they teach is based on the latest scientific research. You can trust her with your health. Whether you’re suffering from TMD or severe migraines, Dr. Stonisch has a solution for you.
To learn more about our effective TMD and migraine care, give us a call at (313) 882-2000.
If you want, we’ll be happy to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with Dr. Stonisch. Or just fill out the easy appointment form at the bottom of the page, and we’ll get right back to you.
We’ll examine your oral health to determine the best treatment option for you. Dr. Stonisch is here to relieve your pain.