Does TMJ Cause Headaches?

Does TMJ cause headaches? Yes, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is one potential cause, as jaw tension and misalignment can contribute to recurring headaches. However, many people don’t realize that frequent headaches can signal an underlying medical issue that needs attention.

Busy schedules can make headaches feel like just another part of the day. Common causes include:

• Poor posture
• Skipped meals
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Lack of sleep
• Certain foods
• Stress

The Link Between Headaches and TMJ Disorders

Headaches can stem from issues with your teeth, jaw alignment, or bite—conditions linked to temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and controls movement when you talk, chew, and laugh.

Because headaches have many potential causes, TMJ-related headaches are often misdiagnosed and treated like regular headaches. That can lead to short-term relief with painkillers, but there is no real solution to the problem.

How TMJ Disorders Cause Headaches

TMJ-related headaches can mimic tension headaches, sinus headaches, and even migraines. It makes diagnosis tricky, and many patients are prescribed painkillers that don’t address the root cause.

Causes of TMJ-Related Headaches

Tension in the TMJ joint can lead to headaches and is commonly caused by:

• Clenching or grinding your teeth
• Osteoarthritis (a form of arthritis)
• A misaligned jaw
• A misaligned bite

5 Questions to Determine if TMJ Is Causing Your Headaches

If you experience persistent headaches and haven’t found relief, your TMJ could be the culprit. Ask yourself these five questions:

1. Do You Have Tight Jaw Muscles or a “Locked Jaw”?

Jaw tightness can result from:

• Anxiety
• Inflammation
• Stress
• Injury
• Overuse of the jaw

Grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw (especially from stress), or having a misaligned bite can put extra strain on your TMJ. This tension can spread from your jaw to your temples, causing headaches.

2. Do You Experience Facial Pain?

Facial pain can stem from several sources, including:

• Toothaches that radiate beyond the jaw
• Sinus problems
• TMJ dysfunction, which may cause clicking, jaw locking, and facial discomfort

Pain may appear in the forehead, cheeks, jaw, or neck—a common symptom of TMJ disorder.

3. Does Your Bite Feel Off?

Since the TMJ connects the jaw to the skull, its condition is closely linked to the bite. If the top and bottom teeth don’t match properly together, the TMJ joints may become irritated, leading to headaches.

4. Do You Hear a Clicking Sound When You Open Your Mouth?

Try slowly opening and closing your mouth. Do you hear a clicking sound when you eat, speak, or yawn? If so, this could be a sign of a TMJ disorder.

5. Do You Snore?

Snoring isn’t just a nighttime nuisance—it can indicate underlying respiratory issues like sleep apnea. It may also contribute to:

• Morning headaches
• High blood pressure
• Poor concentration
• Excessive daytime fatigue

Research suggests that people with sleep apnea have a greater chance of getting TMJ disorders.

Common Symptoms of TMJ-Related Headaches

If you experience any of the following, your headaches may be linked to TMJ issues:

• Jaw tightness
• Facial pain
• Misaligned bite
• Clicking or popping sounds when yawning or eating
• Snoring

Find Relief at Precise Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, Dr. Hands

If you suspect TMJ-related headaches, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation. At Precise Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, Dr. Hands offers expert diagnosis and effective treatment options to relieve jaw pain and headaches.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.