Can a toothache cause a headache?
Learn how toothaches can trigger headaches, their causes, and relief tips. Find expert care and advice at Aspen Dental.

It's not uncommon to wonder if toothaches and headaches are connected, especially when both may occur simultaneously. While these two issues might seem unrelated, there is often a link between them that could indicate a more serious underlying condition.
If you're experiencing persistent toothaches or headaches, it might be time to consult your Aspen Dental care team. Schedule an appointment today.
What causes toothaches?
Toothaches are typically a result of untreated dental issues. Common factors include an abscessed tooth, tooth decay or gum disease. These issues can affect the tooth's pulp, a highly sensitive area made up of nerves, tissues, and blood vessels. When the pulp is irritated or infected, it can lead to significant pain.
For more information, check out our detailed resource here.
The relationship between toothaches and headaches
When experiencing both a toothache and a headache at the same time, there’s a possibility they are linked. This connection often arises because the nerves in the head and face are closely connected. A toothache can trigger a headache due to referred pain, where pain from one part of the body is felt in another.
We’ll explore the connection in more detail below:
Toothache and migraines
The trigeminal nerve, responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions like biting and chewing, can be irritated by dental issues, potentially leading to migraines. This nerve connection explains why dental problems can sometimes result in severe headaches.
Referred pain
Referred pain occurs when pain experienced in one area of the body is felt in another. For example, bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause pain in the jaw that radiates to the head and ears, creating the sensation of a headache.
Conditions that cause toothaches and headaches
Some conditions can lead to both a toothache and a headache, even if they're not directly related to dental or headache disorders.
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring at night. It can cause jaw pain, earaches and headaches. Symptoms include flattened or chipped teeth and increased tooth sensitivity.
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
This rare condition involves the formation of blood clots in the cavernous sinuses, which are responsible for draining blood from the brain. An untreated dental infection can spread, leading to severe headaches and other complications.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders. This pain can extend to the head, resulting in headaches. TMJ disorders may be a result of stress, arthritis or jaw injury.
Trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is caused by damage or compression to the trigeminal nerve, leading to intense facial pain that can also affect the teeth and head. This condition often requires specialized treatment to manage the pain effectively.
How to manage a toothache and headache?
If you're dealing with both a toothache and a headache, seeking professional help at Aspen Dental is crucial for a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, consider taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and rinsing your mouth with salt water to alleviate discomfort.
When to see your dentist?
Getting an accurate diagnosis is vital to prevent future complications. If you experience ongoing toothache and headache, it’s important to see your dentist. In some cases, a dentist might refer you to a specialist for further evaluation, especially if the issue extends beyond dental health.
Toothache and headache FAQs
Can an infected tooth cause a headache?
Yes, an infected tooth can cause a headache due to the proximity of nerves and the spread of infection.
How to know if a dental infection has spread to the head?
Signs that a dental infection may have spread include severe headache, facial swelling, fever and difficulty opening your mouth. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
Can a broken tooth cause jaw pain and headache at the same time?
A broken tooth can indeed lead to jaw pain and headaches, especially if it affects the alignment of your bite or irritates the surrounding nerves.
Understanding the connection
While toothaches and headaches can often be connected through shared nerve pathways or underlying conditions, it's crucial to address both to ensure comprehensive relief. If you're experiencing these symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your local Aspen Dental office. We can help pinpoint the source of your pain and recommend the best course of action.
Remember, managing your dental health is a key step in maintaining overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Aspen Dental today to explore effective solutions and get back to feeling your best.
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