What You Need to Know About The Connection Between Dental Health and Migraines

Mount Vernon woman with her head between her hands

Migraines are a debilitating condition that affects millions of people, often interfering with daily life and productivity. While the exact cause of migraines can vary, there’s a growing body of evidence suggesting a connection between dental health and chronic headaches.

Understanding this link could be the key to finding relief for some sufferers.

At Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry in the Mt. Vernon area, we aim to help our patients identify potential triggers for migraines that could be rooted in oral health issues.

Here’s what you need to know…

How Dental Issues Contribute to Migraines

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull. Problems with this joint, such as misalignment, arthritis, or stress-induced clenching, can lead to TMJ disorders. These disorders often result in muscle tension and pain that radiates to the head, causing migraines.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, is another common contributor to migraines. Often occurring during sleep, bruxism places immense pressure on the jaw muscles and teeth, which can trigger headaches and even migraines.

Dental Alignment Issues

Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can lead to muscle strain in the jaw and face. This tension may spread to the temples and head, potentially contributing to migraines.

Oral Infections and Toothaches

Untreated cavities, gum disease, or infections in the mouth can cause localized inflammation. In some cases, this inflammation may spread, leading to facial pain and migraines.

How Your Dentist Can Help

At Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry, we offer solutions that address dental issues linked to migraines:

  • TMJ Treatment

Our team can evaluate your jaw joint’s health and provide customized treatment plans, such as night guards, orthodontic adjustments, or physical therapy, to alleviate TMJ-related pain.

  • Bruxism Management

If teeth grinding is a problem, we may recommend a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and reduce strain on your jaw muscles.

  • Bite Correction

Correcting misaligned teeth through orthodontics or other dental procedures can relieve muscle tension and prevent migraine-inducing strain.

  • Preventative Care

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry help prevent oral infections and address dental issues before they escalate into more significant problems, including migraines.

When to Seek Help

If you experience chronic migraines and suspect they may be related to your dental health, don’t hesitate to consult with our team at Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry in the Alexandria, Virginia area. A thorough examination of your oral health and jaw alignment could uncover underlying issues contributing to your headaches.

Dental health plays a vital role in overall well-being, and its connection to migraines is an area worth exploring for those seeking relief. At Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry in the Alexandria, Virginia area, we are dedicated to helping our patients find solutions that enhance both oral health and quality of life.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward addressing dental health issues that may be linked to migraines.

Contact Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry:

703-360-5881

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria, Virginia
22306

Alexandria dentists, Dr. James Geren and Dr. Zeyad Mady, of Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, provide provide exceptional cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, sedation dentistry, family dentistry and more for the Alexandria and Mount Vernon, VA area, including the communities of Woodbridge, Fort Belvoir, Newington, Old Town, Franconia, Rose Hill, Lorton, Huntington and Groveton, Virginia and zip codes 22306, 22308, and 22309.
Office Hours: Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry
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Tue 7:00am-3:00pm
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Center for Dental Anesthesia
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