Ever feel like your headaches have a mind of their own? You hydrate, you limit screen time, you even cut back on caffeine—yet the pain keeps coming back. If you haven’t thought to blame your jaw, you’re not alone.
Surprisingly, tension headaches and migraines often have a hidden culprit: TMJ disorders.
How Your Jaw and Head Are Connected
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) isn’t just about chewing—it’s closely connected to the muscles around your temples, neck, and shoulders. When your TMJ is strained or misaligned, the surrounding muscles work overtime to compensate. The result? Chronic tension and pain that radiate into your head.
For many people, this means:
- Frequent tension headaches, especially near the temples
- Migraine-like pain that starts at the jaw or neck
- Pain that worsens when chewing or talking for long periods
Why TMJ Problems Trigger Headaches
When your bite is off or you grind your teeth (often subconsciously while you sleep), the muscles around your jaw stay tight for hours at a time. This constant tension can inflame nearby nerves and blood vessels, setting off a headache.
Clenching your jaw during stressful moments or while you’re focused at work can make things worse—turning a small twinge into a full-blown migraine.
Signs Your Jaw Might Be the Culprit
Not sure if your headaches are jaw-related? Look for these clues:
- Clicking or popping in the jaw when you open wide
- Pain or soreness in your jaw muscles
- Worn-down teeth (a sign of nighttime grinding)
- Neck or shoulder tension that comes with your headaches
How to Find Relief
The good news is that TMJ-related headaches often respond well to simple, conservative treatments:
- Wear a custom night guard to prevent clenching and grinding.
- Practice good posture to reduce neck and jaw tension.
- Do gentle jaw stretches recommended by your dentist.
- Seek a TMJ-focused dental evaluation for a personalized plan.
Stop Letting Jaw Pain Hijack Your Head
You don’t have to keep guessing why your headaches won’t quit. A simple exam could reveal that your jaw is the missing link—and the first step to lasting relief.
Wondering If Your Headaches Are TMJ-Related?
Let’s find out together. Schedule a consultation and get to the root of the pain.
*all procedures at our practice are performed by a general dentist
