The Connection Between Your Jaw and Migraine Headaches

Problems with your jaw can cause migraines and similar headaches. Even though the pain is felt at the side or the top of the head, it may also persist in your ear and jaw. It is for this reason that jaw alignment is considered among the top orthodontic solutions, as it corrects your jaw and eliminates pain caused by it.

In this article, Woodlawn Orthodontics and Health Match, with reviewer Davi Santana, M.Sc, discuss the correlation between jaw pain and headaches. (HealthMatch, How are Migraines Associated With Jaw Pain?, written by HealthMatch staff, Medically reviewed by Davi Santana, M.Sc., https://healthmatch.io/migraine/migraine-jaw-pain ).

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and how it causes headaches

Health Match discusses the temporomandibular joint and what it does. Woodlawn Orthodontics explains, “A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is present on both sides of the head. It enables the jaw’s movement, allowing you to open your mouth.”

According to Health Match, similar to other joints, your TMJ can also develop issues over time. Woodlawn Orthodontics adds, “TMJ headaches may be caused by several different conditions affecting your temporomandibular joint. Whether it is joint hypermobility or tooth grinding, the pain caused by a TMJ headache spreads from your jaw and affects other parts of your head.”

Both Health Match and Woodlawn Dental agree that it can be challenging to differentiate a TMJ headache or migraine from other headaches. “Sometimes, the jaw pain caused by migraines is a result of a TMJ headache spreading to the jaw, typically on just one side,” reveals Woodlawn Orthodontics.

Identifying the signs of TMJ headaches

Health Match notes that there are signs that can help identify whether a migraine or headache is related to TMJ. It stresses the pain caused by jaw activity, the grinding of teeth during headaches, and other signs. It also suggests a ‘pencil test’ to identify a TMJ headache.

“If you experience pain following jaw activity such as eating chewy or crunchy foods, the headache is possibly caused by your TMJ. Also, check if your head hurts when your teeth are clenched or if your jaw remains tight during a headache. These may be signs of a TMJ headache,” states Woodlawn Orthodontics. They add,” One of the best ways to identify a TMJ headache is by using a pencil. Just hold it between your teeth without applying any kind of pressure on your jaw. If there is a noticeable change in the headache, it is likely a TMJ headache.”

Some of the common signs of a TMJ headache that require orthodontics for adults include popping or clicking sounds during jaw movement. Ringing in your ears, stiff jaw, and changes in your bite are all signs of TMJ headaches, they agree.

Woodlawn Orthodontics advises, “If you notice any of these signs, it is highly recommended to consider jaw alignment or orthodontics for adults.”

Can TMJ issues be treated?

Health Match states that, albeit rare, there are two popular surgical orthodontic solutions for TMJ headaches: Arthrocentesis and Arthroscopy. “In arthrocentesis, a needle pushes a liquid into the joint. This causes the ejection of substances and adhesions that cause inflammation. Arthroscopy uses the same technique with the addition of a camera for adhesion removal,” explains Woodlawn Orthodontics.

Woodlawn Orthodontics warns, “Although conservative treatments can fix most TMJ problems, getting a dentist’s diagnosis is crucial to understanding how to proceed. Migraines and TMJ headaches sometimes don’t react to certain oral or topical treatments, making it crucial to consider long-lasting orthodontic solutions,” it concludes.

Both Health Match and Woodlawn Orthodontics agree that the temporomandibular joint can cause migraines and headaches. However, there are orthodontic solutions such as jaw alignment or orthodontics for adults to correct the joint and prevent the pain from spreading to your head. All you have to do, they advise, is to consult a dentist before seeking treatment.