If you struggle with tension headaches, there’s a simple at-home trick that might bring relief: gently hold a pencil between your teeth. The key is not to bite, but to rest it lightly. This small adjustment can help relax overworked jaw muscles, which are often a hidden source of headache pain.
Why It Works
Many headaches, especially tension and TMJ-related types, are triggered by jaw clenching or teeth grinding. Holding a pencil between your teeth encourages your jaw to relax and shifts the position of the temporalis muscle, relieving strain on surrounding tissues. As those muscles loosen, the pain can begin to ease.
How to Try It
- Use a regular pencil or similar object.
- Place it gently between your upper and lower teeth.
- Avoid biting down; let your jaw rest.
- Keep it in place for a minute or two while breathing slowly.
If the headache fades, it’s a sign that jaw tension might be contributing to your discomfort.
A Word of Caution
This is a quick remedy, not a cure. Using the technique too often or biting too firmly can strain your jaw or teeth. If you get consistent relief from this method, it may indicate underlying TMJ issues or bite misalignment. A dentist or TMJ specialist can evaluate and recommend long-term solutions such as custom night guards, bite adjustments, or jaw exercises.
In short, this simple test can provide temporary relief and a valuable clue about the source of your headaches.
