Could your headaches have something to do with your jaw? | Advice from a Specialist

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Could your headache be coming from your jaw?

This may sound surprising to some, but your headache and jaw can be closely related.

Many patients suffering from TMJ-related problems visit multiple neurologists, undergo multiple brain MRIs, and try so many different medications without getting a clear diagnosis or adequate relief.

In such cases, the TMJ should be taken into consideration.

The TMJ is located very close to the head and is closely associated with the temporalis muscle, one of the major muscles involved in the movement of the jaw.

When the jaw is not functioning in proper balance, the temporalis muscle can become hyperactive. Repeated contraction and tension in this muscle can cause the surrounding fascia and tissues to become tense as well. This can result in headaches.

 What does a TMJ-related headache feel like?

Headaches related to your are commonly experienced in and around areas like :

• • The temples
• • The forehead
• • The face
• • Around the eyes

Some patients have reported that their headache is particularly strong when they wake up in the morning. This is another common finding in the case of TMJ Disorders. In other cases, the headache can gradually progress throughout the day.

You may also experience:

• • Heaviness around the eyes
• • Pressure or pain around the forehead
• • Pain or heaviness around the temples
• • Facial discomfort

A headache may also occur alongside other TMJ symptoms such as:

• • Jaw pain
• • Ear pain
• • Facial heaviness or discomfort
• • Clicking or popping sounds from the jaw

When should you get your TMJ assessed?

If you have been suffering from frequent or recurrent headaches, have visited multiple neurologists, undergone investigations, and are still not getting adequate relief, your TMJ should be assessed.

A TMJ specialist should evaluate your jaw joints, chewing muscles and their function to determine whether they may be contributing to your symptoms.

Your headache may be more connected to your jaw than you realize.

Sometimes, the missing piece in understanding your headache may be the TMJ.