Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – A cavity can sometimes result in head pain or headache when left untreated. Dental pain and head pain are signalled by the same nerves, allowing for dental pain to possibly radiate into the head and jaw. Not all people will experience headaches as a result of a cavity, but it is not uncommon to have pain away from the tooth if the tooth is inflamed or infected.
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Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – Tooth Cavities and Head Pain – Why It Happens
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain A cavity is a decayed area of a tooth that exposes nerves within the tooth. If untreated, they can worsen and cause inflammation or infection or put pressure on nerves that can triggerhead pain. Here are several reasons why cavities can cause headaches:
- Cavities can irritate the trigeminal nerve, which connects the face, jaw, and head
- A tooth abscess, or tooth infection, can put pressure on surrounding tissue
- Jaw tension that develops as a result of a toothache can lead to tension-type headaches
- Grinding or clenching teeth (sometimes called bruxism), can develop as a result of tooth pain
- Developing sinus pressure from cavities in upper molars,
This can cause painful pressure to radiate in the temple, cheeks or forehead.
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – Indicators That Your Headache Could Be From a Cavity
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – If your headache is dental in origin, you may notice:
- A dull or throbbing headache on one side
- Sensitivity in a tooth when consuming cold, hot, or sugary foods
- Pain that worsens when chewing or moving the jaw
- Swelling of the gums near a tooth
- Pain that improves with dental treatment
These indicators can help you differentiate dental headaches from migraine and/or sinus headaches.
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – Home Remedies for Temporary Relief
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – There is nothing that fixes a cavity but dental treatment, but the following home remedies may provide temporary relief of tooth pain.
- Warm salt water rinse – helps to minimize the bacteria and inflammation.
- Cold compress – can be applied to the cheek just near the painful tooth in order to numb the area.
- Clove oil – apply a small amount to the cavity for natural pain relief.
- OTC painkillers – ibuprofen or paracetamol – use as prescribed by a doctor.
Generally, these home remedies will provide a modicum of comfort if you are experiencing pain in both the tooth and some referred head pain and you are waiting to see the dentist. Please remember there is nothing that fixes a cavity but the dentist!.
When to See a Dentist
If you leave a cavity untreated, it could eventually lead to infection or abscess, and even worse headache pain. You should see a dentist if:
- You have had the pain more than 1-2 days
- There is swelling, fever, or pus
- You have a bad headache that radiates across your face or jaw
- There is a cavity on your tooth
A dentist can fill the cavity or do a root canal to get to the source of your pain.
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain – Conclusion
Can a Cavity Cause Head Pain It may not be the first thing that comes to your mind, but a cavity can certainly cause head pain, especially if it is not treated. The way the nerves run between your teeth, face, and head can escalate dental problems into big ones quickly. There is no reason to jeopardize your well-being, especially when you can easily alleviate head pain with prompt dental care and some simple home remedies.
