Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While wisdom teeth are not necessary for proper dental health, they can cause numerous issues if they do not come in correctly. One of the most common issues associated with wisdom teeth is headaches. If you are wondering whether or not wisdom teeth can cause headaches, the answer is yes.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that come in during late adolescence. They are the last teeth to come in, usually erupting between the ages of 17 and 25. While they are not necessary for proper dental health, they can cause numerous issues if they do not come in correctly.
How Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?
Headaches caused by wisdom teeth can be the result of a few different things. One of the most common is impaction, which is when the wisdom teeth are blocked by other teeth or bone, preventing them from erupting properly. This can cause pressure on the surrounding teeth, leading to headaches.
Another common cause of headaches from wisdom teeth is infection. If the wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they can be difficult to clean, leading to bacteria buildup and infection. This can cause inflammation in the surrounding area, leading to headaches.
Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Headaches
If you think you may be experiencing headaches caused by wisdom teeth, there are a few symptoms that you should look out for. These include:
- Pain in the back of the mouth or jaw
- Pain that radiates to the temples or forehead
- Pain that is worse when chewing
- Swelling in the area
- Tenderness in the gums
- Bad breath
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible.
Diagnosing Wisdom Teeth Headaches
If you suspect that your headaches may be caused by wisdom teeth, your dentist will be able to diagnose the issue. Your dentist will take an X-ray of your mouth to look for any impacted or infected wisdom teeth. They may also take a CT scan to get a better look at the area.
Treating Wisdom Teeth Headaches
Once your dentist has diagnosed the issue, they will be able to recommend the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may involve removing the wisdom teeth, or simply cleaning and monitoring the area.
Prevention of Wisdom Teeth Headaches
The best way to prevent wisdom teeth headaches is to have regular checkups with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and identify any issues before they become more serious.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of wisdom teeth headaches, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose and treat the issue before it becomes more serious.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom teeth can cause numerous issues, including headaches. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of wisdom teeth headaches, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. With regular checkups, your dentist will be able to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and identify any issues before they become more serious.