Headache pain and migraines can be triggered by a variety of issues. But did you know that your dental health could also be to blame?

There is a strong correlation between many oral problems and headaches. The good news is that, when these dental health issues are addressed and treated, headaches or migraines often subside.

Let’s look at five common oral issues that may be causing headaches — not to mention other negative side effects — and how they’re treated.

1. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Did you know that bruxism — also known as teeth grinding — affects 30 million to 40 million children and adults in the United States? This condition can also include the gnashing and clenching of the teeth, but it can all add up to pain and stiffness in the jaw and intermittent or chronic headaches.

While bruxism doesn’t have a single specific cause that points to why some people grind their teeth and others don’t, there are some risk factors that increase its likelihood, including:

• Anxiety and stress
• Lifestyle choices, like smoking and elevated caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Certain medications, especially anti-anxiety drugs
• Sleep apnea

In addition to lifestyle adjustments, like consuming less caffeine or alcohol and implementing stress reduction techniques, custom mouth guards are one of the most effective treatments for bruxism (and possibly those headaches!).

2. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder

The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull on each side — and TMJ disorders — or TMD — occur when that joint doesn’t function properly. 

Common side effects include the clicking or popping of the joint as well as jaw pain, facial pain, and even severe headaches.

While the causes of TMD aren’t entirely clear, some risk factors include various types of arthritis, jaw injury, and chronic teeth grinding.

To help provide relief from pain and headaches, over-the-counter pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed in addition to custom-made night guards or dental treatments that may relieve muscle tension. Botox in the jaw area is also an option for some patients.

3. Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the set of four permanent adult teeth located at the back corners of your mouth on the top and bottom. They are known as the third set of molars and most commonly emerge in a person’s late teens to early 20s.

Because wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, there is often not enough room for the wisdom teeth to grow in as they should. When there is not sufficient space for wisdom teeth, they may become impacted — which means they are unable to fully break through the gum tissues and jawbone. Or they may grow in at an incorrect angle.

This can create a range of dental challenges and problems, including damage to other teeth, infection and inflammation, and even chronic headaches. The removal of wisdom teeth generally relieves any headaches and helps keep smiles healthy and beautiful while preventing further complications and negative side effects. 

4. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay begins when bacteria in your mouth make acids that start eroding the tooth’s enamel surface. This can lead to a small hole in a tooth, which is called a cavity. If tooth decay is left untreated, it can cause many problems, including tooth pain, infections, and even tooth loss. But tooth decay can also lead to headaches and migraines, because the pain in the tooth’s nerve likewise travels along the trigeminal nerve to other parts of the head.

While many cavities can be remedied with fillings, sometimes a root canal may be required for more severe tooth decay and infections.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine that includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste — and flossing regularly, too — can help guard teeth against tooth decay. Visiting a dentist for six-month professional cleanings and regular check-ups — with X-rays recommended annually — is also essential to ensure any tooth decay doesn’t progress too far.

5. Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is inflammation or infections of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. It’s primarily caused by the bacteria in plaque, which hardens into tartar. This build-up on the teeth becomes difficult to clean without the help of a dental health professional — and thus can begin irritating the gum tissue. 

It’s not only your teeth that can be impacted by periodontal disease. While your gums help keep you safe from bacteria in your mouth, they also serve as a gateway to the rest of your body. When the gums become compromised, it triggers an inflammatory response in the body and can lead to headaches. It also creates higher risk factors for other health complications, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and more.

That’s why it’s so important to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings and check-ups.

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If you think your chronic or severe headaches may be caused by a dental issue, make sure to take immediate steps to see a dentist. If you’re in Summerville, SC, give SMILE! Advanced Dental Center a call today at 843-873-1261 or submit an appointment request here.