People with pain centered in their teeth or sinuses may suspect many things, such as a sinus infection and cavities or other tooth problems. They may never suspect the true cause of their problems, an atypical migraine, also called neurovascular orofacial pain.
Types of Atypical Migraines
Migraines are a mysterious condition. Part of the reason why they’re so hard to understand is that they come in so many forms. In fact, the classic or typical migraine actually account for only about 20-30% of all migraines. The most common type of migraine is a migraine without aura, which has intense forehead pain, but without the aura that used to be considered the primary symptom of migraines.
Other unusual types of migraines include:
- Hemiplegic migraine–accompanied by paralysis on one side of the body
- Retinal migraine–temporary partial or complete blindness in one eye–pain often starts behind that eye
- Basilar artery migraine–has aura symptoms of dizziness, confusion, or loss of balance
- Status migrainosus–a severe migraine that can last up to 72 hours
- Ophthalmoplegic migraine–pain starts around the eye, often with paralysis of the eye muscles
These migraine types are rare, and should only be considered when other explanations for the pain have been explored.
TMJ and Migraine Treatment
If you are experiencing facial pain and are unsure whether it is TMJ, dental problems, or a migraine, talking to a neuromuscular dentist is one of your best options. A neuromuscular dentist can evaluate your jaw joint as well as the condition of your teeth. In addition, TMJ treatment can often reduce the frequency or severity of your migraines.
For help distinguishing between dental pain, migraines, TMJ, and more, please call (303) 691-0267 at the TMJ Therapy & Sleep Center of Colorado in Denver.
