TMJ and Headaches: Why Jaw Problems May Be to Blame

You may already have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or TMD and not know it. Those mysterious headaches have a root cause. The general dentist will assess you. The results may indicate your jaw joint as the source of your pain. Understanding why your TMJ issues may be causing your headaches can provide you with the right solution.

Jaw joint problems causing headaches

It can be surprising for some people to learn that TMD is causing headaches. But TMJ headaches are common. Knowing more about them can provide lasting relief. The jaw joint has a vital role in connecting the lower jaw to the skull. It functions as a hinge each time the mouth opens and closes. It needs many bones and muscles to function without issue.

Misalignment, stress, and swelling can interrupt the jaw joint’s smooth functioning. Pain from the jaw joint spreads to different areas, such as the temples. TMJ headaches mask themselves as normal migraines or tension headaches. Pressure builds behind the eyes or in the temples. It worsens when the individual talks or eats.

Sometimes, patients complain about jaw issues while having headaches. The general dentist can pinpoint the root cause of the discomfort. The diagnosis is possible by palpating the jaw and the jaw joint. Ordering dental X-rays and scans can confirm the source of the pain.

Signs and causes

Headaches may indicate TMD. But TMJ headaches do not occur by themselves. Patients may also experience jaw-popping when moving the jaw. There could also be tenderness of the face or neck. Morning jaw stiffness limits one’s ability to open the mouth. Earaches can also occur. Some individuals feel some changes in how the teeth fit together. Here are some causes of TMD headaches:

• Chronic stress can result in frequent jaw clenching and jaw muscle tension.
• Teeth grinding or bruxism can add more pressure to the jaw joints and muscles, resulting in pain and swelling.
• Trauma to the jaw or face can lead to muscle strain or joint misalignment.
• Poor posture can affect jaw alignment and surrounding jaw muscles.
• Degenerative joint diseases and arthritis can affect the TMJ.

Solutions from a general dentist

The general dentist will evaluate the patient’s mouth and medical history during the consultation. This assessment will be a combination of symptom study, physical exams, and diagnostic imaging. After the diagnosis, discussing the treatment options will follow. The general dentist will create a treatment plan based on the patient’s lifestyle, symptoms, and health. Any of the following may be part of the treatment plan.

Muscle relaxant injections can help manage jaw joint pain. Each injection targets specific jaw muscles. The goal is to reduce involuntary jaw clenching and tension in the jaw muscles. These injections relieve jaw pain and headaches caused by TMJ disorders.

A custom-fitted mouthguard or splint can help relieve headaches by reducing pressure on the jaw joint. It prevents the lower and upper dental arches from meeting. This device also protects the teeth from damage due to bruxism while sleeping at night.

Lifestyle changes can help relieve the headaches. Good posture and stress management can improve TMJ pain. Meditation may also relieve anxiety and stress. These practices can prevent or reduce headaches.