Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?
October 17, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can potentially contribute to headaches in some individuals, but they are not a common cause of headaches. The relationship between wisdom teeth and headaches is indirect and typically occurs under specific circumstances. Here are a few ways in which wisdom teeth might be associated with headaches:
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to emerge properly and may become impacted, meaning they are unable to grow in normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas, which might lead to tension-type headaches or migraines in some people.
- Jaw Pain: Wisdom teeth can lead to jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, which might radiate and cause referred pain in the head, leading to headaches.
- Sinus Pain: Wisdom teeth located in the upper jaw (maxillary molars) can sometimes press against the sinuses, potentially leading to sinus pain and headaches.
- Teeth Crowding: In some cases, wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to crowding and misalignment of the teeth. This can affect the bite and jaw position, potentially contributing to headaches.
It’s important to note that while wisdom teeth can be associated with these issues, not everyone with wisdom teeth will experience headaches or other complications. Additionally, many people have their wisdom teeth removed preventatively to avoid potential problems.
If you are experiencing headaches and suspect that your wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor, it’s advisable to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon for an evaluation. They can assess the condition of your wisdom teeth and determine whether their removal is necessary. It’s important to consider other potential causes of headaches as well, as headaches can have various origins, including stress, tension, migraines, and other medical conditions.