A toothache and headache can sometimes happen together, making it hard to figure out what’s wrong. Both issues could be linked by a condition called referred pain, in which discomfort from your teeth may cause a headache. If you are experiencing toothache and headache at the same time, you need to visit a dentist near you to treat it.
What is the Connection Between Toothaches and Headaches?
Toothache and headache are linked, and it is known as referred pain. Referred pain refers to a condition where one feels pain at some other site than at its actual point of occurrence. For example, if you have a toothache, there is likely a chance that you experience pain in your head.
This occurs because all of the nerves in your teeth and all of the nerves in your head are interconnected. If the nerves inside your tooth become inflamed, irritated, or damaged, they can send pain signals that will transmit to the nerves inside your head and cause a headache.
Also, toothache causes headache and earache and pain may extend to your ear. This is because the nerves from your teeth have close connections with your head and ears. If an earache is caused by a toothache or headache, visit a dentist near you for treatment because they can provide the appropriate care.
What Common Conditions Cause Both Toothaches and Headaches?
A few different conditions can cause toothaches and headaches. Knowing them might help you determine the cause of your pain.
Bruxism :
Bruxism refers to the grinding of teeth or clenching of jaws, mostly at night. Grinding puts pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles and may result in pain in your teeth and headaches. Grinding causes soreness of the teeth and strain on the muscles around the jaw, which may give rise to headaches.
Sinus Infections :
Sinus infections result when the air-filled spaces in your skull, the sinuses, become infected and swollen. This infection can cause pain in the areas around your nose, eyes, and forehead.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ):
This is a condition involving the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This specific joint is located in front of every ear. When it does not work properly, it causes discomfort or aches to areas like the jaw, teeth, and even the forehead. Individuals who have TMJ may additionally have clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, and sometimes the pain felt in the jaw causes headaches.
Trigeminal Neuralgia:
Trigeminal neuralgia is a problem that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face, including the teeth. It can cause discomfort and sharp, sudden pain in your teeth, jaw, or face. Sometimes the pain from trigeminal neuralgia can be strong enough to cause headaches.
Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis:
This is a life-threatening condition in which a blood clot forms inside the cavernous sinus. This may include a severe headache, pain or discomfort around the eyes, and toothache. If you experience toothache symptoms with an intense headache and swelling around the eyes, contact an emergency dentist immediately to treat it.
When to Visit a Dentist for Toothache and Headache?
You should seek immediate attention from a dentist if you simultaneously have a toothache and a headache so that they can detect the cause and treat it. Seeking dental care from a professional is necessary in some cases, including:
- Your tooth has been aching for over a few days.
- Pain is severe or it is worsening.
- Swelling on gums or face.
If your dentist finds out that your toothache is connected to a dental issue, they will provide you with the right treatment. In case they determine that toothache and headache might be due to other reasons, they might refer you to a professional for further evaluation.
How to Manage Pain from Toothaches and Headaches?
The following are ways one can manage the pain from a toothache and headache:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: These medications will help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Cold compress: This involves applying an ice pack to the cheek where you are having pain. It helps reduce swelling in the surrounding areas of the face and thus numb the pain.
- Saltwater rinse: Rinsing around the mouth with warm salt water helps to clean the area affected and relieve swelling.
- Avoid hard food consumption: During a toothache, consume soft foods to prevent the teeth from obtaining a lot of pressure and avoid biting on the affected side.
- Maintained good oral hygiene: Practicing oral habits like brushing twice a day and flossing regularly to prevent cavities, infection, and many dental issues.
What is the Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment?
Treating the underlying problem early helps to avoid developing further complications. For example:
- Prevent complications: Early treatment can help to prevent dental issues like infection, tooth loss, and more.
- Reduction in pain: Treating the source of your discomfort might help to relieve the pain quicker.
- Enhances quality of life: Treating toothache and headache can improve general health and minimize discomfort that may affect daily activities.
Can Toothache Cause Headache On One Side?
Yes, a toothache can cause a headache on one side of your head. This happens because the nerves are connected to the teeth and head. Whenever a toothache is coming from one side of the mouth, it might send pain signals closer to the head, causing a headache on that same side. When you have toothache and headache, you are required to visit a dentist to detect the cause and treat it.
A toothache can sometimes lead to a headache due to referred pain or other factors. Identifying the cause of both toothache and headache and seeking timely treatment can help you manage the pain more effectively and improve your overall health.
Schedule a Checkup at Our Dental Clinic Today!
Inspire Dental Group has a team of experienced dentists who are dedicated to offering effective treatment in a welcoming environment. Our comprehensive services include regular checkups, teeth whitening, Invisalign, and more toothache solution in Vancouver that meet your dental needs. At our clinic, we are dedicated to improving your oral and smile with our services. For quality dental care, contact us today!
