ThinkstockPhotos 511735934 Emerald Isle Smiles: Aubrey Myers, DDS Emerald Isle NC

Are you frustrated by daily reoccurring headaches?

Headaches can be frustrating and may make it difficult to concentrate or lead a fulfilling life. If you experience chronic headaches, jaw pain, muscle spasms or ear and neck pain, you may be grinding your teeth, or have issues affecting your temporomandibular joint. Daily headaches, especially ones that occur first thing in the morning, are commonly an indicator of a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), commonly referred to as TMJ.

For many patients, visiting the dentist for chronic headaches may not occur to them. If you experience frequent headaches, be sure to let Dr. Aubrey Myers know during your next dental appointment in our Emerald Isle dentist office. Chronic pain caused by teeth grinding, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction may not be responsive to common symptomatic treatments. Often, these types of headaches will require bite analysis and restorative dental treatment to address the root cause and establish a healthy oral foundation.

Treating Chronic Headaches

Malfunction of the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a chronic pain condition that can affect the quality of a patient’s life. This complex bite disorder affects the comfort and function of the bite and jaw. TMD can result from teeth grinding, malocclusion, or trauma to the jaw joint.

Malocclusion can cause damage to surrounding teeth and gum tissue as well as a lead to chronic pain and muscle tension in the face, jaw, and neck. A misaligned bite can compromise the health and function of the bite.

Dr. Myers is a Dawson Academy graduate who has undergone many hours of extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders, including the relief of TMJ related headaches. The goal of TMJ therapy is to adjust the bite, so that it functions naturally and is properly aligned. Dr. Myers works to stabilize the bite through a variety of restorative and cosmetic dental treatments. In more complex cases, Dr. Myers may partner with a specialist.

Schedule A Consultation

If you experience frequent headaches, jaw pain, or popping and clicking of the jaw, contact Emerald Isle Smiles to learn more about how comprehensive TMD therapy can help alleviate your symptoms. We welcome new patients from Cedar Point, Cape Carteret, Bogue, Emerald Isle and surrounding communities. Contact our Emerald Isle, NC dentist office or request an appointment online.