An infected tooth can lead to a headache. Pain from a dental infection can extend beyond the tooth, causing discomfort in the head. This article explores the mechanisms linking tooth infections to headaches, identifies other accompanying symptoms, and outlines necessary steps for relief and treatment.
How Tooth Infections Lead to Headaches
A primary reason a tooth infection can cause a headache is through referred pain. The trigeminal nerve, a sensory nerve, relays signals from the teeth, face, and head to the brain. When an infection irritates this nerve, the brain may misinterpret pain signals, causing discomfort in areas like the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes, rather than solely at the tooth.
Inflammation and swelling from an infection also contribute to headaches. As bacteria invade the tooth’s pulp, inflammation spreads to surrounding tissues and nerves. This pressure can radiate, affecting nearby facial and cranial nerves and leading to head pain.
Infections in upper teeth, particularly molars, can involve the maxillary sinuses, located just above these teeth. If the infection spreads or irritates these sinuses, it can lead to sinus pressure and a headache.
Persistent dental pain can also induce muscle tension. Discomfort from an infected tooth may cause clenching or tightness in the jaw muscles. This tension can extend to the muscles in the neck and shoulders, resulting in tension-type headaches.
Other Signs of a Dental Headache
A headache originating from a tooth infection is accompanied by localized tooth pain. This pain can manifest as a throbbing, sharp, or constant ache in the affected tooth. It may also present as heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or discomfort when pressure is applied, such as during chewing or biting.
Swelling is another indicator of a dental infection. This can appear in the face, jaw, or gums near the infected tooth. The swelling often signals a localized collection of pus, known as an abscess, which can cause facial pain that radiates to the head.
Systemic symptoms can also arise, indicating a spreading infection. These may include a low-grade fever, a general feeling of being unwell, or fatigue. Swollen and tender lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck can also be present.
A persistent bad taste in the mouth or foul breath can suggest pus drainage from the infected tooth. Pain that intensifies when chewing or biting down on the affected tooth is also a sign, as pressure exacerbates the underlying dental issue.
Next Steps for Relief and Treatment
If a headache is suspected to stem from a tooth infection, seeking immediate dental attention is important. Tooth infections do not resolve on their own and require professional intervention. Delaying treatment can lead to the spread of bacteria, potentially causing more severe health issues.
At the dentist’s office, the diagnostic process begins with a clinical examination, where the dentist assesses the teeth and gums for signs of infection like swelling or discoloration. X-rays are taken to gain insights into the tooth’s internal structures and to identify any hidden infections or abscesses. In more complex cases, a CT scan may be used to determine the infection’s extent, especially if it has spread to surrounding areas.
Treatments for an infected tooth include root canal therapy, which involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing the tooth. In some instances, tooth extraction may be necessary if the infection is too severe to save the tooth. Antibiotics might be prescribed to control the infection, usually as a temporary measure or in conjunction with a definitive dental procedure.
For temporary pain management, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can offer relief. Applying a cold compress to the affected area may also help reduce swelling and discomfort. These measures, however, only address symptoms and are not a cure for the underlying infection.