Wisdom Teeth and their relationship with Headaches & Migraines
When wisdom teeth start to come in, they can cause pain in your mouth, which seldomly can radiate across your face, neck, and head. As these teeth grow, they may put pressure on the upper jaw and sinuses, which can lead to migraines or make existing ones worse. Highly unlikely that wisdom teeth cause headaches and migraines. Again, they can amplify existing various headache types and cause them to flare up.
Since the pain sensors in your head and mouth are connected, discomfort in one area can make pain in another area feel more intense.
At Topeka Oral Surgery, we understand the challenges that come with wisdom teeth and their impact on your well-being. Below, we explain how wisdom teeth can cause migraines, ways to ease the pain, and other oral issues that may lead to headaches.
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is a very bad headache that often happens on one side of the head. It usually comes with feelings of sickness, throwing up, and being sensitive to light and noise .The pain tends to throb or pulse and can be quite intense. It can be treated medically by your primary care physician.
Signs Your Headaches Might Be Caused by Wisdom Teeth
Here are some symptoms that could indicate your wisdom teeth are triggering your headaches:
Jaw pain or stiffness
Neck pain
Headaches after eating
Dull pain in your back molars
Pain when opening your mouth wide
Swollen or sore gums by wisdom teeth eruption site
Why Wisdom Teeth Can Trigger Migraines
Wisdom teeth typically grow between ages 16 and 25. As they emerge, they can press against your gums, jawbone, or nearby teeth, causing pain and swelling. This pressure can amplify existing headaches or migraines.
How to Relieve Flare up - Painful headaches
1. Ibuprofen:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like Motrin, Advil (ibuprofen) can help.
2. Hot & Cold Packs:
Use cold packs to reduce swelling, and warm packs to relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Other Problems Wisdom Teeth Can Cause
Beyond headaches, wisdom teeth can also lead to:
1. Tooth Decay:
Partially erupted teeth are harder to clean and more prone to cavities.
2. Cysts:
Fluid-filled sacs around the teeth can damage nearby teeth and nerves.
3. Gum Infections:
Infections like pericoronitis can occur around partially emerged wisdom teeth.
4. Damage to Neighboring Teeth:
Crowded wisdom teeth may press against other teeth, causing pain or infection.
Wisdom teeth should be periodically evaluated yearly. It is important to remove them at a younger age to minimize postoperative risks. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we’re here to provide lasting relief by safely removing wisdom teeth and easing your pain.
Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can help you feel better.
