Connections between wisdom teeth complications and migraines uncovered, further details included
Wisdom teeth, the last set of molars to erupt in the mouth, can sometimes cause more than just dental discomfort. According to recent research, there is a link between wisdom teeth growth and headaches, including migraines.
The Link between Wisdom Teeth and Headaches
Wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to grow properly, causing pressure on adjacent teeth and the jaw. This pressure can lead to tension in the jaw, temples, and neck muscles, manifesting as chronic headaches or migraines.
The strain on the jaw muscles can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, which includes pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement, often associated with headaches and facial pain. Additionally, wisdom teeth can trigger bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), leading to muscle fatigue and tension headaches, as well as migraines in some cases.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause inflammation, facial swelling, and local nerve pressure, which may contribute to headache symptoms, sometimes mimicking sinus headaches.
Symptoms of Migraines Associated with Wisdom Teeth
Common migraine symptoms associated with wisdom teeth problems include severe headache, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light, smells, and different sounds, pounding or throbbing head pain, pain on one or both sides of the head.
Seeking Professional Help
If you are experiencing moderate to severe pain, worsening with physical activity or any movement, causing nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, sounds, or smells, making it difficult to carry out daily activities, or causing a throbbing, pounding, or pulsating sensation, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
For those concerned that their wisdom teeth are erupting or impacted, it is recommended to consult a dentist. The dentist can perform X-rays to determine the most suitable treatment. In some cases, people with impacted wisdom teeth may need to consult an oral surgeon for removal surgery to alleviate jaw pain and any related symptoms, such as headaches or migraine.
It's essential to remember that while over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can help address the pain caused by growing wisdom teeth at home, seeking professional help is crucial to prevent potential complications.
Additional Factors Contributing to Migraines
Certain factors, such as alcohol, caffeine, hormone changes, sleep disruptions, and stress, can be triggers for migraine in some people. However, for those experiencing migraines in conjunction with wisdom teeth problems, addressing dental issues may provide significant relief.
Preventive Measures
Rinsing with warm salt water can counter soreness and soothe inflamed gums due to growing wisdom teeth. Additionally, certain mouthwashes can work to minimize inflammation caused by growing wisdom teeth.
In conclusion, wisdom teeth problems can induce physical stress and nerve irritation in the jaw and cranial muscles, which can contribute to the development or exacerbation of migraines and chronic headaches. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth may be causing or worsening your headaches, it is advisable to consult a dental or orthodontic specialist for a thorough examination.
[1] American Migraine Foundation. (n.d.). Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and Migraine. Retrieved from https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/temporomandibular-disorders-tmd-and-migraine/
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/temporomandibular-joint-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20351666
[3] National Headache Foundation. (2021). Bruxism and Migraine. Retrieved from https://www.headaches.org/2019/02/26/bruxism-and-migraine/
[4] American Dental Association. (2019). Migraine and Headache Awareness Month. Retrieved from https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/migraine-and-headache-awareness-month
[5] American Migraine Foundation. (2020). Migraine and Dental Health. Retrieved from https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/migraine-and-dental-health/
- The growth of wisdom teeth can lead to headaches, including migraines, due to pressure on adjacent teeth and the jaw.
- The strain on jaw muscles caused by wisdom teeth can cause TMJ dysfunction, often associated with headaches, facial pain, and migraines.
- Additionally, wisdom teeth can trigger teeth grinding, leading to muscle tension headaches and migraines.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can cause inflammation, facial swelling, and local nerve pressure, which may contribute to headache symptoms.
- Common migraine symptoms associated with wisdom teeth problems are severe headache, nausea, sensitivity to light, smells, sounds, and throbbing pain.
- If experiencing moderate to severe pain, or symptoms that interfere with daily activities, it is advisable to consult a doctor or dentist for a thorough examination.
- Over-the-counter pain medications can help address pain caused by growing wisdom teeth, but professional help is important for preventing potential complications.
- Certain factors, such as alcohol, caffeine, hormone changes, sleep disruptions, and stress, can trigger migraines, but addressing dental issues may provide significant relief for those experiencing migraines in conjunction with wisdom teeth problems.
