June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

Since 1974, our Wilson family dentistry patients have come to us with a variety of dental concerns and symptoms, including headaches, which can be symptomatic of TMJ. June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, a time that the American Headache and Migraine Association (AHMA) hopes can build awareness, educate the public, and reduce the stigma associated with a variety of headache disorders.

The Migraine Research Foundation reports that almost one in every four U.S. households contains a migraine sufferer. These searing headache attacks can endure anywhere from a few hours to several days, sometimes accompanied by vomiting and intense sensitivity to noise and light.

Common causes of migraines include:

• Weather changes
• Stress
• Physical exertion
• Sleep deprivation
• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Hormonal medications

An intense, recurring headache is the most commonly reported symptom of TMJ. TMJ-related headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Jaw popping or clicking
• Jaw locking
• Face and jaw pain
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Biting or chewing difficulty
• Earaches

If you’re looking for migraine treatment in Wilson, the family dentistry practice of Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles can evaluate your situation and determine if TMJ treatment is right for you.

Treating TMJ involves two primary processes, beginning with an electrotherapy device known as a TENS unit. This device uses small electrical currents to relax your jaw muscles and reduce pain. Following the TENS unit treatment, a customized mouth guard can be implemented to gently align your jaw and reduce future strain.

If you suffer from frequent headaches, please contact our experienced neuromuscular dentists online or call 252-291-2892 to schedule an appointment. The family dentistry practice of Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles proudly serves patients from Wilson, Goldsboro, Greenville and Rocky Mount, North Carolina.