Usually, tooth pain related to cavities and tooth decay doesn’t cause headaches. However, if the damage is extensive, the pain may radiate and feel like a headache. While cavities commonly cause tooth pain, some oral health issues also cause headaches.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain and other symptoms, schedule an appointment with our team.
With an office in The Woodlands, Texas, Scott Young, DDS, provides dental services for the greater Houston region, including the communities of Highland Village, West University, River Oaks, Rice Village, and Memorial.
Here are some oral health problems that can cause headaches:
If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw while you sleep or during times of stress, the stress on your jaw and facial muscles can also cause headaches.
Over time, bruxism can wear down your teeth and damage the TMJ (temporomandibular joint). A night guard and stress relief activities can help manage your symptoms and minimize the risk of damage.
Malocclusions (bite problems) like an overbite, crossbite, or crowding can lead to symptoms like tooth pain and headaches.
When your teeth don’t align correctly, it makes it more difficult to brush and floss your teeth, increasing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. It can also strain your jaw and TMJ.
While orthodontic treatment is most common in childhood, adults can also get treatment.
The temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge joint that connects the upper and lower jaw. Like any joint in the body, it can experience damage from injuries, wear-and-tear, or arthritis.
TMJ disorders can make it difficult to eat or open and close your mouth. It can also cause your jaw to “pop” or lock in place and is a common cause of facial pain and headaches.
Sinus infections and inflammation sometimes cause pain in the TMJ and teeth (referred pain). Migraines can also cause tooth pain in some cases.
Schedule an appointment if you have pain that doesn’t resolve on its own in a few days, is severe, occurs after an injury or trauma, or happens with other symptoms like a fever, bleeding, or signs of an infection.
The best way to protect yourself from oral health issues is to practice optimal oral hygiene and schedule an appointment for a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months.
For more information, contact Scott Young, DDS, today to schedule an appointment at our The Woodlands, Texas office.
