Headache Treatment Protocols

How are you going to treat my pain and get rid of my migraines?

The answer to this question can be complex because we utilize multiple treatment options and customized strategies. By combining various evidence-based headache therapies, we are able to provide comprehensive and often complete pain relief.

Each case is treated individually. Over decades of clinical experience, we have refined our protocols to understand what works—and what does not. Our treatment plans may include behavioral modifications, dietary changes, physical therapy, and neuromuscular dental orthotic therapy when clinically indicated.

Because every patient’s condition is unique, it is impossible to list all relevant details on this website. However, it is important to recognize that these therapies require proper diagnosis, precise implementation, and clinical experience. While some practitioners attempt similar treatments, outcomes can vary significantly without specialized training and expertise.

With over 30 years of experience treating chronic head pain, our focus remains on identifying root causes, applying individualized care, and achieving long-term, predictable results.

Lower Splints for Headache Treatment

Lower orthotics can be among the most effective appliances for correcting jaw imbalances and relieving even severe headaches and migraines—particularly in patients diagnosed with advanced TMJ degeneration and cartilage loss.

However, these appliances are typically not the first line of treatment. They are generally reserved for patients with chronic joint damage and significant structural compromise of the TMJ.

In our experience, over 90% of the orthotics we evaluate are improperly designed and/or poorly fitted. Many place the jaws in an incorrect position, which can actually increase pain and worsen symptoms rather than improve them.

The primary purpose of most lower orthotics is to create an optimal jaw position that allows the damaged TMJ cartilage an opportunity to heal. These appliances require very specific design characteristics to function properly. In addition, strict wear instructions must be followed for the splint to be effective.

It is also important to note that patients who clench or grind heavily may not be good candidates for lower orthotics as an initial treatment approach. In such cases, other therapies may be necessary before considering this type of appliance.