Do you suffer from headaches on a regular basis? If so then it’s a good idea to tell your dentist about them. Depending on the type of headache, your dentist may be able to provide you with a solution to overcoming them.
Headaches are generally classified into 4 basic types:
Sinus – Pain is behind the brow bone and/or cheekbones.
Cluster – Pain is in and around one eye.
Tension – Pain is like a band that is squeezing the head
Migraine – The classic form consists of pain, nausea, and visual changes
The tension headache is by far the most common of all the headaches. Research estimates the number being as high as 90%. Over the counter pain medication will often times control the symptoms and discomfort. However if they occur with some regularity and have persisted for a long period of time it is a good idea to discuss them with your dentist.
The muscles of the temple area of your forehead play a vital role in controlling and closing the jaw. If your occlusion or bite isn’t aligned properly you can experience abnormal tension in these muscles. This can be a cause of your tension headaches.
If the bite is not corrected the muscles remain tight and tense for longer periods of time. The contracted muscle doesn’t get a chance to rest and soon suffers from poor circulation due to a lack of oxygen. Waste products also accumulate. The end result is pain or a headache.
At Arizona Dental Medicine, we specialize in technology that allows us to objectively evaluate the state of your muscles and other factors that may be affecting your bite. Based on this evaluation and a comprehensive exam we can rule in or out your bite being a possible cause of your chronic headaches.
If we determine that your bite is indeed the source of your pain then one option is a custom made orthotic. An orthotic is a plastic appliance that is worn over or fixed on your teeth to align your bite.
We may then discuss options on how to permanently correct your bite.
Stop suffering from chronic headaches. Call Arizona Dental Medicine today to set up your evaluation. You deserve a pain free life! 520- 297-9069