TMJ and Migraine Relief in Las Vegas: What You Need to Know Before Seeing a Specialist

TMJ and Migraine Relief in Las Vegas: What You Need to Know Before Seeing a Specialist

By: Hillside Dental
Posted on: June 3, 2025

If you’re experiencing chronic headaches, jaw pain, or migraines that seem to worsen with stress or jaw movement, you may be dealing with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. In Las Vegas, many patients are surprised to discover that their migraines and facial pain are connected to TMJ dysfunction. Before seeking a specialist, it's important to understand the relationship between TMJ and migraines, and what treatment options are available to help you find lasting relief.
 

Understanding the TMJ-Migraine Connection

The temporomandibular joints connect your jawbone to your skull and are essential for chewing, speaking, and yawning. When these joints are misaligned, inflamed, or under strain due to teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, or trauma, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder.
 

This dysfunction often causes:
 

• Jaw clicking or popping
• Difficulty chewing
• Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
• Pain that radiates to the neck, shoulders, or face
• Chronic headaches and migraines

TMJ-related migraines are triggered by muscle tension and nerve irritation surrounding the jaw. Because of the proximity to cranial nerves, TMJ pain can mimic or trigger migraines, making diagnosis and treatment complex.
 

Signs You May Need to See a TMJ Specialist

It’s easy to confuse TMJ-related pain with other types of headaches or neurological issues. However, you should consider visiting a specialist if you experience:
 

• Frequent migraines that don’t respond to medication
• Jaw discomfort that worsens with talking or chewing
• Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep
• Limited jaw mobility or jaw locking
• Pain near the temples or around the ears

A dentist trained in TMJ disorders can help you determine whether your migraines are linked to jaw dysfunction and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
 

What to Expect During Your TMJ Evaluation

During your consultation at Hillside Dental, we’ll begin with a thorough examination of your jaw movement, bite alignment, and medical history. Diagnostic imaging, such as digital X-rays, may be used to evaluate the condition of your joints and surrounding tissues.
 

From there, we may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:
 

• Custom Nightguards or Splints to reduce teeth grinding and relieve pressure on the TMJ
• Bite Realignment or orthodontic treatment to correct occlusal issues
• Lifestyle recommendations including stress reduction techniques and dietary changes

Early treatment can significantly reduce pain, restore function, and improve your overall quality of life.
 

Achieve TMJ and Migraine Relief in Las Vegas

TMJ disorder is a common yet often overlooked cause of migraines and chronic facial pain. Understanding the connection between your jaw health and headache symptoms is the first step toward effective, lasting relief. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, many patients experience significant improvements in both jaw function and migraine frequency.
 

If you’re dealing with persistent jaw discomfort or unexplained migraines, reach out to Hillside Dental to schedule a TMJ evaluation. Contact our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, by calling (702) 666-8584 for new patients or (702) 895-7799 for existing patients.