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Many people experience headaches and assume they are caused by stress, lack of sleep, or eye strain, but an often overlooked source is problems with the way the teeth come together. Bite problems, also known as malocclusions, can create chronic strain on the masticatory system, leading to frequent migraines. When the upper and lower teeth do not align properly, the jaw has to work constantly adjust to improper contact, which causes the muscles in the jaw, cervical spine, and scapular area to accumulate muscular fatigue, which can trigger migraine-like episodes. The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ connects the jaw to the skull and is surrounded by muscles that help with mastication, articulation, and swallowing. If your bite is off, in subtle ways, these muscles are forced to overwork. Over time, this ongoing overload can lead to chronic myalgia and swelling. The pain from these overworked muscles often radiates upward into the head, making it easy to confuse with tension headaches. 鐘ヶ淵 矯正歯科 grinding, or bruxism, is another common issue linked to bite problems. Many people exhibit parafunctional habits during rest, which puts extreme force on the TMJ and masticatory muscles. This habit can lead to dull, persistent head pain upon waking. People who wake up with jaw pain, soreness in the face, or aching teeth may be experiencing the effects of a dental imbalance with parafunctional activity. Dentists and orofacial pain practitioners can evaluate whether a bite issue is contributing to headaches. They may use clinical exams, splint trials, and 3D jaw modeling to evaluate functional disruption. Treatments can include occlusal splints to reduce joint stress, orthodontic adjustments to improve alignment, or occlusal equilibration. In some cases, targeted exercises for the TMJ region can also provide noticeable reduction in pain. It is important to consider orofacial origins when headaches persist despite other treatments. If you frequently suffer from headaches and have noticed painful jaw movements, popping sounds, or flattened enamel, it may be worth consulting a orofacial pain expert. Addressing the root cause in the mouth can lead to permanent reduction in headache frequency and intensity. Understanding this connection between your bite and your head can empower you to find the true source of your discomfort.