As we observe National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to explore the hidden clues your body may be sending when you experience frequent headaches or migraines. Surprisingly, your mouth and jaw could play a major role in the pain you’re feeling—making oral health an important part of the conversation.

How Oral Health and Headaches Are Linked

Chronic headaches are often traced back to issues within the mouth that many people overlook. Misaligned bites, constant teeth grinding, and undiagnosed TMJ disorders can strain the muscles in your jaw and face, triggering pain that radiates to the head. Even untreated dental infections can cause inflammation that mimics migraine symptoms.

Common Dental Causes of Headaches

  • Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Unconscious grinding puts pressure on jaw muscles, leading to tension headaches.
  • Jaw Misalignment: An uneven bite forces muscles to compensate, often resulting in pain that travels upward.
  • TMJ Disorder: Inflammation and dysfunction in the jaw joint can produce widespread facial and head pain.
  • Oral Infections: Dental abscesses and gum disease can cause systemic inflammation, sometimes presenting as head discomfort.

Find Answers and Relief

If you find yourself battling unexplained headaches or migraines, a dental examination could reveal underlying issues you didn’t know existed. Addressing these problems not only protects your oral health but could also bring much-needed relief from chronic pain.

Don’t ignore the hidden clues your body is offering. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future! Call Anacapa Dental Art Institute at 805-800-8289 for an appointment. You can also schedule online.