A doctor named an unexpected cause of headaches

Chronic headaches are often associated not only with neurological disorders but also with problems of the dentofacial system. One of the frequently underestimated causes, according to specialists, is malocclusion and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.

As reported by BAKU.WS citing "Gazeta.Ru," prosthodontist Nodira Sarsadskikh noted that when teeth do not align properly, the lower jaw assumes an unnatural position. As a result, the muscles of the face, neck, and shoulders are forced to work under increased strain, leading to constant tension and the onset of headaches.

According to the specialist, discomfort can also arise from the displacement of the lower jaw backward. In this case, pressure increases in the joint area where nerve endings and blood vessels are located, which can cause pain resembling a migraine.

The expert explained that such discomfort most commonly spreads to the temples, the back of the head, and the neck. Symptoms often worsen in the morning after sleep due to involuntary teeth clenching, or by evening after prolonged chewing and talking.

Additional signs may include clicking and crunching in the jaw joint, as well as a feeling of stiffness and fatigue in the facial muscles. For a preliminary check, specialists recommend opening and closing the mouth wide several times, paying attention to any unusual sounds or deviation of the jaw to one side.

If treatment by a neurologist does not produce a lasting effect, the doctor recommends undergoing an examination by an ENT specialist and a gnathologist. Diagnosis typically includes an assessment of the bite, the condition of the muscles and joints, as well as MRI or CT scanning. As one of the primary treatment methods, splint therapy using a custom-made occlusal splint is often employed, which helps relax the muscles and restore proper jaw positioning.