Can Your Teeth Cause Migraines?
A headache so severe it causes excruciating pain. Millions of people suffer from migraines, and many have no idea what triggers them. Often they are related to ‘environmental’ factors, such as weather fluctuations, allergies or food aversions. What many people don’t realize is that migraine pain may also be caused by treatable dental conditions. According to Dr. Jack Ringer, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, “since the proximity of the jaw to the brain is so close, there could be a link between headaches (including migraines) and dental health.”
Dr. Peter Auster, President of the New York Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (https://myria.com) notes that “While anyone with a history of severe headaches should see his/her physician to determine if there is an obvious medical cause, a conservative dental approach can work in many cases.” See if you answer “Yes” to any of the following questions:
Six Telltale Symptoms Your Migraine Could Be Tooth Related
- Do you wake up with sore or painful jaw muscles?
- Are your headaches often in the areas of your temples or back of the neck?
- Do you have pain in the upper shoulder area?
- Do you have a sensation that your bite doesn’t feel right, or your bite changes?
- Have you ever heard a clicking or a grinding sound in your jaw joint?
- Do you ever have pain or discomfort while chewing, especially when chewing gum?
See Your Dentist
At C R Dental Group located in Dallas, Texas, Dr. James Reisman and Dr. Jordana Contrucci suggest that a “Yes” answer to one or more of these questions can be addressed with a comprehensive oral evaluation. If a tooth, or oral related condition, is identified, your dentist can offer options to treat the issue. Dr. Auster adds “Analyzing your bite and making necessary adjustments or treating the teeth can help reverse migraine headaches caused by teeth misalignment and stress-related teeth grinding.” It’s best to see your dentist at least twice a year, and always discuss any health issues you may be experiencing to get the most thorough diagnosis and treatment possible.
