Headache From the Jaw

TMD can also cause jaw stiffness, limited movement or locking, painful clicking or grating, ringing in the ears, dizziness, and a change in how the teeth meet.

TMD has several possible contributors, including teeth grinding, joint wear, injury to the head or face, stress, and an uneven bite.

Simple treatment is the starting point because TMD symptoms often go away without treatment. Procedures that permanently change the jaw joint, including surgery or implants, should be avoided where possible.

There is no widely accepted single test for TMD. The assessment covers the pain history and a check of the head, neck, face, and jaw, with X-ray, MRI, or CT imaging sometimes used.

Arthrocentesis uses fluid in the jaw joint to clear adhesions and inflammatory substances. It can improve pain and mouth opening when the disc is displaced, although the benefit may not last; arthroscopy may remove adhesions or reposition the disc.

Begin with simple TMD treatment and weigh the risks before procedures that permanently change the joint. This keeps irreversible treatment from becoming the first response to jaw symptoms.

Pain around the jaw, ear, or side of the head, painful jaw sounds, and difficulty opening the mouth can occur with TMD, along with frequent severe headaches.

Urgent assessment is needed if jaw symptoms occur with frequent severe headaches, scalp pain or tenderness, double vision, or loss of vision, or if you cannot eat or drink.