Are you suffering from a bad toothache along with a headache? The association between a toothache and a headache is a classic illustration of the unexpected connections that can arise from the human body’s complex network of nerves. Toothaches don’t only hurt your jaw; they also cause headaches. Let’s discuss how and why!
How Does a Toothache Cause a Headache?
The similar neural circuits of the head and face explain why toothaches and headaches are more than just a coincidence. For instance, a toothache can actually cause a migraine because pain impulses from the toothache might go upward, causing discomfort all over the brain.
Similar to this, referred pain, where the head feels pain coming from the jaw or teeth, can be caused by dental disorders, including bruxism, which is characterized by severe teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Therefore, having a headache and a toothache clearly points to a linked underlying cause.
Experts credit the complex role of the trigeminal nerve, the main nerve responsible for facial sensibility, with this link. This nerve is triggered when a toothache happens, and the pain impulses that follow may spread to other regions that the trigeminal nerve innervates, eventually resulting in a headache or migraine.
How Can You Alleviate Toothache with a Headache?
It’s important to treat both the headache and the toothache when they occur together. Here’s how to feel better:
Reduce Swelling with Cold Compresses: Every few hours, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek, close to the afflicted tooth, for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Reduce Pain with Medication: Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are two over-the-counter pain medications that can help reduce the pain of toothaches and headaches.
Dietary Changes: Steer clear of sweet, spicy, or cold meals and beverages since these may make tooth discomfort worse. Keep doing this until the toothache goes away.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: To keep your mouth clean and reduce the chance of infection, rinse it gently several times a day with warm salt water or an antibacterial mouthwash.
How Can You Prevent Toothaches and Headaches?
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are a few ways in which you can prevent toothaches and headaches:
- Remember to brush and floss regularly to remove dirt between your teeth
- Make sure you get enough sleep for your general health
- Feed your body a healthy, balanced diet
- Visit your dentist regularly
Ending Note!
Toothaches can cause headaches since the nerves of your teeth are close to the nerves of your eyes. This pain can be caused by referred pain, TMJ, or infections radiating to the head. You might want to talk to your dentist if you often have toothache and headaches.
For further queries and concerns, consult our expert dentist, Dr. Omad Chaudhry, at Enhance Dental at Heritage. Call us at (919) 569-5719 to book your appointment.