A:

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause headaches.

“TMJ” is short-hand for temporomandibular joint. It’s the ball-and-socket joint that connects the jaw to the skull just in front of the ear. Some people use the term TMJ to describe pain that comes from this joint. Although doctors and dentists are now more likely to use the abbreviation TMD (for temporomandibular disorder) or TMJD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction).

TMD appears to be caused by a variety of different problems. These include:

• Arthritis
• Trauma to the jaw
• Muscle spasms from jaw clenching or stress
• Poor alignment of the teeth
• Nighttime grinding of the teeth (bruxism)

TMD can produce many symptoms, including:

• Pain or tenderness over the joint, especially when chewing, speaking or opening the mouth wide
• Clicking, popping or cracking sounds when you chew or move the jaw
• Muscle spasms
• A sense that the teeth aren’t in alignment
• The sensation that the jaw cannot move, open or shut

Headaches can also be a major symptom of TMD. Often the headache starts at the jaw or TMJ. It then spreads over the top of the head. In a person prone to migraines, pain from TMD can trigger a typical migraine headache.

People suffering from this condition should see their doctor or dentist. Help includes:

• Changes in diet and chewing habits
• Treatment of stress
• Correction of dental problems
• Use of pain relievers and muscle relaxants