While it’s not known what causes a TMD, it could be something as simple as consistent teeth grinding. TMJ pain has been reported in 1 in 10 people, and TMD has been reported in almost half of the population of the United States.
There are no specific statistics about TMJ headaches because it can be hard to distinguish between general headaches and TMJ headaches.
The muscles of the TMJ run along your jaw and cheeks, and sometimes these muscles can cause pain — even headaches. When the muscles in your jaw tense up — like when you grind your teeth — the pain can spread to other TMJ muscles alongside your cheeks and on the sides and top of your head, causing a headache.
A TMJ headache might also result from TMJ issues related to osteoarthritis, joint hypermobility, or osteoporosis.