If you’ve ever woken up with a dull ache in your temples or felt tension across your forehead after a stressful day, your jaw might be to blame. Jaw clenching—often a subconscious habit—can absolutely cause headaches, and in many cases, it's part of a larger condition known as bruxism.
What Is Jaw Clenching (Bruxism)?
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding and jaw clenching. While it can happen during the day, it often occurs at night when you’re unaware it’s happening. Over time, this constant pressure strains your jaw muscles, irritates the nerves, and can trigger tension headaches or even migraines.
How It Leads to Headaches
- The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. When you clench, you’re overworking the muscles around this joint.
- This tension spreads to nearby muscles in the head, neck, and shoulders, often resulting in dull, persistent headaches.
- Over time, clenching can wear down teeth, cause jaw joint inflammation, and even affect your bite.
Signs You're Clenching at Night
- Sore jaw in the morning
- Flattened or worn teeth
- Clicking or popping jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Frequent tension headaches or neck pain
How to Treat It
- Custom Nightguards: These help cushion your teeth and reduce jaw muscle strain while you sleep.
- Stress Management: Clenching often has a stress component. Mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and massage can relieve TMJ muscle tension.
- Dental Adjustment: In some cases, correcting a misaligned bite can ease the clenching habit.
The Bottom Line
If you’re dealing with frequent headaches and don’t know why, your dentist may be the first place to look for answers.
Book an appointment today with Dr. Michael Fernandez today to explore your symptoms and protect your teeth.