Can Bad Teeth Cause Headaches & Is It an Emergency?

Did you know that having bad teeth can actually cause headaches? It’s true! 

Some people think that the health of our teeth and mouth has little effect on the rest of our bodies. But in reality, oral health and overall health are closely connected. 

But how can something as seemingly unrelated as teeth cause headaches? 

Let’s talk about the warning signs and when your “dental headache” might be an emergency. 

RELATED: DO YOU HAVE ROTTEN TEETH? SYMPTOMS, PAIN, AND TREATMENT FOR YOUR BAD TEETH

Can Bad Teeth Cause Headaches?

Yes, bad teeth can cause headaches. While it’s difficult to provide an exact number of people who experience headaches as a result of teeth problems, studies have shown that dental issues such as:

• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Periodontal disease (gum disease)
• Bruxism (tooth grinding)

According to one study, up to 30% of individuals with chronic headaches may have symptoms related to TMJ.  Another study found that headaches are present in about 95% of adults with bruxism. 

So, why does this happen?

Well, it turns out that the inflammation and infection caused by gum disease can actually spread to other parts of the body, including the head and neck. This can lead to muscle tension, which can then cause headaches. 

For bruxism and TMJ, the reason is a little more straightforward. The constant tension in your jaw muscles can spread up to the sides of your checks to your temples, causing a tension headache. 

So if you’ve been experiencing frequent headaches and toothaches, it might be worth chatting with your dentist about getting a cleaning and treatment for your gums. 

Trust us, your head (and your mouth) will thank you! 

RELATED: HOW TO PERMANENTLY CURE TMJ AND RELIEVE PAIN

Signs You Have Bad Teeth

Here are some signs that you might have bad teeth:

1. Your breath smells bad. This can be a sign of tooth decay or gum disease.
2. You have cavities. Cavities are small holes in your teeth caused by tooth decay. If you have cavities, getting them filled as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage.
3. Your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily. Healthy gums are pink and don’t bleed easily. If your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily, it could be a sign of gum disease.
4. Your teeth are yellow or discolored. If your teeth are yellow or discolored, it could signify tooth decay or poor dental hygiene.
5. You have pain when you chew or bite. If you have pain when you chew or bite, it could be a sign of a toothache or a cavity.

Taking care of your teeth is vital for maintaining good overall health, so don’t ignore any potential issues!

RELATED: WHAT CAUSES BAD BREATH EVEN AFTER BRUSHING?

How To Tell if Your Headache is from Your Teeth 

Here are some signs that your headache may be caused by your teeth:

1. The pain is concentrated in your jaw, mouth, or teeth.
2. You have pain or discomfort when you bite or chew.
3. You have a toothache or tooth sensitivity.
4. You have swelling or tenderness in your gums.
5. You have a history of dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease.

Of course, not all dental issues will cause headaches, and it varies from person to person. To eliminate more serious health concerns, a quick trip to the dentist can set your mind at ease.

RELATED: TOOTH DECAY: SIGNS, STAGES, AND TREATMENTS

When Headaches Causes By Teeth is a Dental Emergency

Headaches that are caused by teeth problems can sometimes be a dental emergency. Here are some signs that you may have a dental emergency:

1. You have severe tooth pain that cannot be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
2. You have a tooth that has been knocked out.
3. You have a tooth that is cracked or broken.
4. You have a mouth injury, such as a cut or laceration, bleeding heavily and will not stop.

In the case of a dental emergency, your dentist may be able to see you the same day or refer you to a specialist who can help. It’s important to address dental emergencies as soon as possible to prevent further damage and to ensure the best possible outcome.

RELATED: WHAT IS AN ABSCESSED TOOTH? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN TREAT IT

Conclusion

In conclusion, bad teeth can indeed cause headaches. The inflammation and infection caused by gum disease can spread to other parts of the body, including the head and neck, leading to muscle tension and, ultimately, headaches. 

Tension headaches can also happen from nightly teeth grinding or if you have TMJ.

If you’ve been experiencing frequent headaches and poor dental health, it’s worth talking to your dentist about getting a cleaning and treatment for your gums. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important not only for your teeth and gums but also for your overall health and well-being. Taking care of your teeth can help prevent gum disease and the headaches that can come with it.

Don’t let your oral health impact your overall health! If you’re in Los Angeles, book your bi-annual cleaning with Dr. Lasry!