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TMJ and Migraine Relief
in Grosse Pointe, MI

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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.

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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.

Finding the Relief You Need

If you’ve been diagnosed with TMD or are experiencing migraines, Dr. Stonisch offers various solutions to get you the help you need.

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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.

Standard, Effective Techniques

After your bite is properly assessed, Dr. Stonisch can recommend one of the following treatment options that we offer at our practice in Grosse Pointe Woods:

1. Bite adjustment

To ensure your teeth are aligned and touch without pressure, teeth are sometimes thinned, built-up, or leveled. This will alleviate pressure or friction when you bite or chew, allowing your jaw to open and close properly.

2. Braces

This orthodontic treatment can shift the upper teeth to make room for the lower teeth. Dr. Stonisch can also modify the amount of tooth structure in between the contacts, allowing narrower teeth to fit better.

3. Overlays

We can use porcelain or resin to build up the back teeth to increase their height and open up the bite. This can either reduce the pressure on the front teeth or correct the issue by improving support on the back teeth.

4. Jaw surgery

Dr. Stonisch may recommend surgery when there’s no other way to correct the problem. This includes wiring the jaws shut and it typically requires a long recovery over the course of several weeks.

5. Botox®

This is an effective treatment for patients experiencing bite problems or TMD caused by bruxism. Botox reduces the strength of contractions in the muscles that work the jaws while grinding. In turn, pressure on your teeth and potential damage is reduced.

6. Bite guards

To temporarily protect your teeth, a bite guard will reduce teeth and jaw joint damage. Keep in mind, it won’t solve your bite problems but rather prevent additional damage as we prepare you for more definitive treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

I suffer from TMJ disorder. How can you help?
How long do TMJ symptoms last?
I have chronic migraines. How can you help?
How long do migraines last?
Can migraines be prevented?
I suffer from TMJ disorder. How can you help?

To treat TMJ disorder, Dr. Stonisch offers effective treatments, like oral devices or other oral procedures to relieve pain and discomfort. Surgery may be necessary to treat severe symptoms of TMJ, but we’ll examine the cause of your pain to determine the best course of action. With an extensive education in TMJ, Dr. Stonisch is ready to help you get a good night’s rest and wake up to a pain-free morning.”

How long do TMJ symptoms last?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If the underlying problem isn’t treated, symptoms can be chronic and last years. It’s important to contact Dr. Stonisch if you’re experiencing pain due to TMJ or migraines. 

To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (313) 882-2000 so we can relieve your discomfort and help you rediscover what it’s like to wake up pain-free.

I have chronic migraines. How can you help?

When you experience the onset of a migraine, the effects can be unnerving. Some helpful tips to treat migraines include drinking a caffeinated beverage, applying a cold or warm compress, turning off the lights, or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Bruxism is a common cause of migraines, which is characterized by clenching or grinding of the teeth. If you’re experiencing bruxism, contact our practice to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stonisch so she can examine your condition and discuss your treatment options. We’ll get to the root of the problem and prevent any further complications. 

How long do migraines last?

Migraines can last anywhere from four hours to several days. If you’re experiencing migraines, give us a call at (313) 882-2000 and Dr. Stonisch will review your medical history and recommend the most effective treatment for your condition. 

 

Can migraines be prevented?

There are several ways to prevent migraines, such as establishing a healthy bedtime routine, managing stress, and receiving professional care. Migraines may be due to underlying issues caused by bruxism, or teeth grinding. If that’s the case, Dr. Stonisch can treat bruxism with a custom-made, portable oral device. During your free consultation, Dr. Stonisch will assess the cause of your migraines and discuss your treatment options. 

 

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.

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