Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. But can a wisdom tooth cause a headache?
It’s easy to assume that dental issues are totally separate from headaches, but that’s not always the case. Impacted wisdom teeth, for example, can sometimes lead to head pain.
In this article, we’ll dive into the potential connection between wisdom teeth and headaches, exploring the possible causes, symptoms, and how to manage the pain.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. Some people never develop wisdom teeth, but those who do may experience problems.
Often, wisdom teeth become “impacted,” meaning they don’t have enough room to erupt properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful. They can also cause infections and other problems with your teeth and gums.
Why do wisdom teeth cause headaches?
Several events associated with the arrival of wisdom teeth may explain why they’re associated with headaches.
Pressure and impaction
Impacted wisdom teeth can push on your jawbone, nearby teeth, and nerves. That pressure can radiate outward and upward, causing pain in your head. Even partial impaction can cause a chronic, low-grade pain that contributes to headaches.
Inflammation
When wisdom teeth are trying to break through the gums, it can cause inflammation in your gums and the tissues surrounding them. That inflammation can trigger headaches, too. Pericoronitis, which is inflammation of the soft tissue around the crown of a partially erupted tooth, may also contribute to headaches.
Jaw muscle tension
Pain in the wisdom teeth area may cause people to clench or grind their teeth. That can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, and that tension can spread into the head, causing tension headaches.
Sinus issues
The roots of your upper wisdom teeth are sometimes located close to your sinus cavities. If those teeth get inflamed or infected, it can irritate your sinuses and cause sinus headaches.
How to tell if your headache is from your wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause a unique headache. Here’s how to tell if that throbbing in your head is actually a wisdom tooth headache.
Location
Wisdom tooth headaches usually cause pain on one side of your head. The pain can radiate from your jaw or even your ear.
Type of pain
The pain from a wisdom tooth can be throbbing or aching, and it can range from mild to severe.
Accompanying symptoms
If your headache is caused by your wisdom teeth, you may also notice:
- Jaw pain and swelling
- Increased pain when you chew
- Soreness in your jaw
- Pain when you open your mouth wide
- Swelling in your gums
If you have an infection, you may also have a fever or bad breath.
Other signs wisdom teeth may be causing your headaches
It can be tricky to figure out if wisdom teeth are causing your headaches, but here are some clues:
- Sinus headaches: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to sinus issues, which can trigger headaches.
- Severe migraines or tension headaches: While wisdom teeth aren’t usually the primary cause of these types of headaches, they can sometimes contribute to the pain.
- Headache accompanied by earache: The pain and pressure from erupting wisdom teeth can sometimes radiate to the ear.
- Headaches that worsen when you bite down: This is a pretty strong indicator that your wisdom teeth might be involved.
- Pain on the side where your wisdom teeth are erupting: If your headache is localized to the same side as your erupting wisdom teeth, it’s worth investigating.
- Tingling or numbness in the face: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on nerves, causing tingling or numbness.
- Headache when eating something cold or hot: If you experience a headache when eating very cold or hot food, it may be related to your wisdom teeth.
What other problems are associated with wisdom teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Pain and discomfort in the jaw.
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth.
- Infections around the wisdom teeth.
- Cysts or tumors in the jaw.
- Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to talk to your dentist.
Managing Headaches Caused by Wisdom Teeth
If wisdom teeth are causing you headaches, there are a few things you can do to find relief.
Over-the-counter pain relievers
OTC medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help ease the pain and inflammation. Always follow the dosage recommendations on the package, and check with your doctor if you have any underlying conditions or take other medications.
Cold and warm compresses
Applying a cold compress to your jaw can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain, while a warm compress can help relax tense jaw muscles. Alternating between warm and cold compresses may bring the most relief.
Maintain good oral hygiene
Brush and floss regularly to keep the area clean and prevent infection. An antiseptic mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Dietary adjustments
Stick to softer foods that don’t require a lot of chewing, which can put pressure on your wisdom teeth. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could make the pain worse.
When to see a dentist about your wisdom teeth
It’s important to see a dentist regularly so they can keep an eye on your wisdom teeth. Dentists can use X-rays to see how your wisdom teeth are developing, even before they erupt.
You should definitely see a dentist if you have a headache that won’t go away, jaw pain, or any other symptoms that concern you. Early treatment can keep things from getting worse.
Wisdom tooth extraction
Dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth when they cause pain, infection, or other problems. The surgery itself usually isn’t a big deal. The dentist will numb your mouth, and then remove the tooth. You’ll probably have some swelling and discomfort for a few days afterward.
Dentists often recommend extraction between the ages of 17 and 25 because the roots are not fully developed, and the bone is less dense. This can make the procedure easier and the recovery faster.
In Conclusion
While not always the direct cause, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to headaches, especially when accompanied by pain in the jaw, face, or neck. We’ve discussed how these symptoms can arise and what steps you can take to manage the discomfort, including over-the-counter pain relievers and warm compresses.
However, the most important thing you can do is schedule an appointment with your dentist. A professional evaluation will determine if your wisdom teeth are the source of your headaches and what treatment options are best for you. Addressing wisdom teeth issues can greatly improve your oral health and overall quality of life.