Headaches & Jawache

Temporo Mandibular Joint Problems

Headaches

Headaches & Jaw-ache

Headaches involve mild to severe pain in one or more parts of the head, including the back of the head. There are mainly 2 categories of headaches:

  •        Tension Headache (most common)
  •        Migraine Headache

Tension Headache

People who suffer from tension headache say that they feel a tight band or “vice-grip” on the head. The pain is usually dull and covers the whole head. It is thought that Tension Headaches are caused by:

  •        Stress
  •        Anxiety
  •        Depression
  •        Bad posture
  •        Staying in one position for too long
  •        Working in an awkward position for too long
  •        Clenching one’s Jaw
  •        Tobacco or Alcohol use
  •        In Woman, it may be due to Hormonal changes

Treatment for a Tension Headache

The pharmaceutical route of “over the counter” medication such as Aspirin, Paracetomol or Ibuprofen is obvious.

       It is better if you can identify the things that trigger your headache, and you may need to make lifestyle changes such as:

  • Getting enough Sleep, doing plenty of Exercise, and stretching the back  and neck muscles.
  • Diet. Are you eating properly?
  • Work. is it too stressful? How can you reduce the stress?

If your Tension Headache is recurrent and not responding to simple remedies, you need to consult with your Doctor.

Migrane Headache

This is the cause of 20% of all headaches.

Migraine is usually experienced as a throbbing pain on one side of the head with an associated feeling of nausea and light sensitivity. The pain often lasts several hours, or even all day.

Causes are similar to Tension Headaches but there may often be a Family History

Treatment for a Migraine Headache

  • Any sudden severe headache accompanied by feelings of nausea or vomiting, should be brought to the attention of your Doctor.
  • If all medical causes have been exhausted, a patient should consider a visit to their Dentist. If you clench or grind your teeth you may have a problem with your Bite. Once addressed and your bite corrected, the Migraines often reduce in frequency and dissipate.

Dental Treatments to alleviate headaches

  • For patients who are “clenching” or “grinding”, a very simple appliance can be given for night-time use called an “NTI- appliance”. This is a plastic appliance covering the upper front teeth.
  • Myofunctional Exercises: These are special exercises which help to relax the Jaw and neck muscles, thus alleviating the symptoms. We are the only Practice in the country currently addressing, modifying, and correcting bad oral habits using Myofunctional Therapy.
  • Bite Adjustment: Sometimes the bite is not in Balance and selective tooth adjustment is required.
  • Orthodontics:  If the Upper and Lower jaw are not sitting comfortably within the T.M.J joint, changing the position or relationship of the Jaws is necessary. This is referred to as Functional Jaw Orthopaedics (F.J.O)

1a, Barr Na Sraide, Main St, Ballincollig, Co. Cork, Ireland

021487 2600

Always there to care.

Working Hours

MONDAY
9 AM – 8 PM
TUESDAY - FRIDAY
9 AM – 6 PM
SATURDAY
9 AM – 1 PM
SUNDAY
CLOSED

We are here to help.

Book an Appointment

    Happy Patients

    My experience in the O Connor dental health was pleasent.As a person who is nervous about visiting the dentist i felt very relaxed both in the waiting room and on the chair.Over the years i have attended a few different dentists and this has been the one practice where i felt relaxed and at ease due to the care of the staff. Before my procedures it was explained to me by the staff what to expect and i found this helped put me at ease. For any one who is nervous of visiting the dentists i would strongly recommend this practice.

    C.Madden

    Patient

    My daughter needed orthodontic treatment. Tony did a very comprehensive plan for my daughter and went through it with me and my daughter in great detail before he began the treatment. We knew how long it was going to take and what exactly was involved. What I liked about Tony was, he was so enthusiastic himself about the treatment and took great pride in getting it right, tweaking a bit here and there to make sure he got the best result. He explained everything to my daughter and encouraged her through the treatment. Tony does not just look at the teeth but also the shape of her mouth and the overall look. I would highly recommend Tony and his team, he is a genuine, passionate and meticulous about his work and a very nice person as well. My daughter has a lovely smile and my younger daughter can't wait to start her treatment as she sees the fantastic results of Tony's work and can't wait to have the same fantastic smile.

    Antoinette

    Patient

    Why Choose O’Connor Dental Health

    Friendly, Family Atmosphere

    At O'Connor Dental Health we aim to provide a relaxed family atmosphere that is enjoyable for all ages.

    Unique Range of Services

    We offer a wide range of treatments, including early intervention for children, orthodontics for teens and adults and a multitude of general dental services

    Locally Based in Ballincollig, Cork

    Our state of the art clinic is located in Ballincollig, Cork. We have ample parking available, comfortable waiting room and a multitude of nearby shops and amenities.

    Fantastic Track Record

    Our Reputation speaks for itself, we have the highest number of positive reviews in the area, and always ensure that our patients leave happy with the service and treatment where possible.

    Dental Clinic Ballincollig

    We are here to help, if you have any questions or concerns please