Many people do not realise that the jaw, teeth, and surrounding muscles are closely linked to chronic head pain. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the body, supported by a network of powerful muscles. When these muscles are overworked through nighttime grinding, daytime clenching, or a misaligned bite, the resulting tension can radiate through the face, temples, and neck—triggering tension headaches and migraines.
Signs that your migraines may have a dental origin include:
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Morning headaches or migraines that wake you from sleep
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Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking when you open your mouth
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Facial tension or a tired, aching sensation in your jaw muscles
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Tooth wear, chipping, or sensitivity with no obvious cause
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Neck and shoulder pain that accompanies your headaches
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Tenderness in the temples or around the ears
If you recognise these symptoms, a dental assessment could be the key to identifying the root cause of your pain.
