Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to erupt in the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While they can be a helpful addition to the mouth, they often cause problems due to their location. Because wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth, they can be difficult to clean and are more likely to become impacted.
When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can cause a number of problems including headaches. Mouth pain, infection, and damage to other teeth can also be a result of impacted wisdom teeth.
How Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?
While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed that wisdom teeth can trigger headaches by putting pressure on the nerves in the jaw. Wisdom teeth can also cause tension headaches by causing the muscles in the jaw to become tight.
If you are experiencing headaches and have wisdom teeth, it is important to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon. They will be able to determine if your wisdom teeth are the cause of your headaches and recommend the best treatment.
Types of Headache that May be Caused by Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Many patients report to feeling different types of head pain that can be caused by impacted wisdom teeth.
Daily Throbbing Headaches
If you are experiencing headaches on a daily basis, it is possible that your wisdom teeth are the cause if you have not had them removed and you can see other wisdom teeth starting to break through your gums. Daily headaches are often dull and throbbing and can be accompanied by jaw pain.
Severe Migraines
When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it is growing sideways into another tooth which can cause immense pain and headache. If you are experiencing a migraine and you believe that your wisdom teeth are coming in, you should see a dentist.
How Will You Know If Your Headache is Caused By Wisdom Teeth?
There are several symptoms that can be directly correlated to an impacted wisdom tooth besides headaches. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms along with headaches, you should see a dentist for x-rays of your mouth. Symptoms include things such as:
- Bad breath that does not go away with brushing
- Jaw pain or soreness
- A dull, throbbing sensation in your back teeth
- Pain when opening your mouth wide
- Swelling in your gums
- Difficulty swallowing
These symptoms can also be caused by other dental problems, so it is important to see a dentist to rule out any other possible causes.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth. This is often the best course of action to take to relieve headaches and other symptoms caused by impacted wisdom teeth.
Contact Lane and Associates for Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you are experiencing headache pain and you believe that it is a result of an impacted wisdom tooth, get in touch with a dentist at Lane DDS today. Locate an office close to you and fill out a contact form online to get in touch with us.
