One of the reasons TMD can be so painful, and cause symptoms through such a wide area, is because of the specific nerves that can be affected. The major nerve in this area is the trigeminal nerve, also known as the fifth cranial nerve. This nerve is extremely powerful and complex, carrying signals to the jaws, face, tongue, teeth, and eyes.
The trigeminal nerve is closely connected to the hypoglossal, facial, and vagus nerves. These nerves carry signals to the neck, throat, and head. If one of these four nerves is disturbed, it usually causes a disruption in the others in a sort of neural chain reaction. So if TMD interferes with any one of these nerves, it can also disrupt the others. Another branch of the trigeminal nerve is the mandibular nerve, which serves the middle ear. Disruption to this nerve by TMD can cause tinnitus.
This variety of symptoms is one of the factors that make TMD so difficult to diagnose. When doctors are dealing with a patient complaining of headaches, the jaw isn't the first thing that comes to mind as a possible cause. Yet some doctors estimate that over half of undiagnosed migraines are due to TMD.
If you're suffering from headaches, tinnitus, or other possible symptoms of TMD, please contact Dr. Kirk Quigless, DDS, for a consultation. Dr. Quigless, cosmetic and neuromuscular dentist in St. Louis, Missouri, can diagnose your TMD and recommend treatment that will eliminate your discomfort and pain.
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