If you’ve ever experienced persistent headaches that just don’t seem to go away—especially ones accompanied by jaw discomfort—you may be dealing with a TMJ disorder. TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can cause a wide range of symptoms, and headaches are one of the most common.
Understanding what a TMJ headache feels like can help you determine if TMJ treatment could bring you relief.
How TMJ Disorders Trigger Headaches
Your temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull and allow you to speak, chew, and yawn. When these joints or the surrounding muscles become irritated or inflamed, it can set off a chain reaction that leads to headaches. TMJ-related headaches often occur because of muscle tension, nerve irritation, or joint inflammation that radiates pain into the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes.
Certain behaviors can also contribute to TMJ headaches. Clenching or grinding your teeth, poor posture, or stress-related jaw tension can put additional strain on these joints, increasing the likelihood of headaches.
What a TMJ Headache Feels Like
TMJ headaches have distinct characteristics that can help differentiate them from other types of headaches. Many people describe them as a dull, aching pain that starts near the jaw and spreads to other parts of the head. The pain may feel similar to a tension headache or even mimic migraine symptoms, making it tricky to identify without a professional evaluation.
Common sensations associated with TMJ headaches include:
- A steady, pressure-like pain in the temples or around the ears
- Tightness or soreness in the jaw muscles
- Pain that worsens when chewing, talking, or opening the mouth wide
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Discomfort that radiates into the neck and shoulders
Unlike headaches caused solely by dehydration or eye strain, TMJ headaches often come with jaw-related symptoms. If you notice these patterns, it’s worth discussing your concerns with a dental professional familiar with TMJ disorders.
How TMJ Treatment May Help Reduce Headaches
The good news is that TMJ-related headaches can often be managed or even significantly reduced with the right treatment. A customized TMJ treatment plan focuses on addressing the root cause of your symptoms—whether that’s muscle tension, joint misalignment, or teeth grinding.
Treatment options may include:
- Oral appliances (like nightguards or splints) to minimize clenching and grinding
- Physical therapy exercises to improve jaw mobility
- Stress management techniques to reduce tension
- Bite adjustments or orthodontic solutions, if necessary
If you’ve been struggling with chronic headaches and suspect TMJ might be the cause, don’t hesitate to explore your options for relief.
About the Practice
Advanced Dental Clinic is proud to serve the community with comprehensive dental care, including TMJ diagnosis and treatment. Led by Dr. Maryam Bemani, our skilled team is dedicated to helping patients achieve comfort and wellness through customized solutions. We combine advanced technology with a compassionate approach to care for every patient’s unique needs.
Call us at (443) 251-5580 or request an appointment online.