Can a Toothache Give You a Headache? When to See a Dentist

Have you ever felt a nagging toothache that somehow gave you a headache, too? You’re not alone. Toothaches and headaches don’t just seem connected—they often are! For young adults juggling busy schedules, ignoring oral discomfort can sometimes feel like a minor issue. But when tooth pain radiates to your head, it’s time to take it seriously.

Dentists, like the ones on our team, want to help you understand why toothache pain sometimes travels, the dental and medical conditions that could be causing the pain, and when to see a dentist or healthcare provider. By the end, you’ll know exactly when it’s time to swap the pain meds for a dental appointment!

Why Toothache Pain Travels

A minor toothache can leave your entire head pounding. That’s because the nerves in your teeth are closely connected to the nerves in your face, head, and neck. When something triggers tooth pain—like cavities, infections, or even grinding—it can set off nerve signals that travel through the trigeminal nerve, the major nerve for sensation in your face.

The trigeminal nerve is like a highway and is responsible for most of the total cranial pain perception, carrying pain signals across different regions, including your jaw, cheekbones, and even your temples. That’s why it’s easy for a problem in your tooth to feel like a splitting headache. It's the same reason sinus infections sometimes feel like tooth pain—they share the same nervous system pathways.

Medical Conditions That Link Toothaches & Headaches

Sometimes, the story behind a toothache and headache combo goes deeper than surface-level dental issues. Here are a few medical conditions that might be affecting your aches:

Sinusitis

Your sinuses are located right above your upper teeth. When they become inflamed due to infection or allergies, you might feel pressure in your head that mimics a headache, alongside tooth pain in your upper jaw.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD/TMJ) 

The TMJ connects the bottom jaw to the skull, and issues here—like misalignment or excessive strain—are notorious for causing severe headaches and jaw and tooth pain. Lingering or chronic pain or discomfort is called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ).

Migraines

Migraines are linked to hypersensitivity in the trigeminal nerve. While migraines themselves aren’t necessarily caused by tooth issues, bad habits like grinding or jaw tension can worsen the pain. Conversely, dental infections or abscesses can also irritate the trigeminal nerve, potentially triggering a migraine.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Grinding your teeth—especially at night—is a common cause of tension headaches. The repetitive pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles can result in tooth pain and even long-term damage if left untreated.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you suspect non-dental issues like sinus problems or chronic migraines, consult your doctor. They can rule out underlying conditions and help guide your next steps.

Dental Conditions That Can Cause Headaches & Migraines

Beyond medical issues, specific dental problems might be the root cause of your discomfort.

Cavities & Tooth Decay

Untreated cavities can expose the nerve endings in your teeth, causing sharp, radiating pain that sometimes extends to your temples or forehead.

Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Advanced gum disease can lead to swelling, infection, and pain that spreads from your gums to your head.

Dental Abscess

A tooth abscess—an infection at the root of a tooth—can cause severe, throbbing pain. The infection can also extend to the surrounding tissue, heightening the intensity of your headache.

Wisdom Tooth Issues

Erupting or impacted wisdom teeth can pressure your jaw and surrounding nerves, leading to tooth pain, tension headaches, and jaw discomfort.

Improper Bite (Malocclusion)

Misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite can strain your jaw muscles. Over time, tension can lead to frequent headaches and even shoulder or neck pain. 

When to See Your Dentist

If your headaches often accompany tooth or gum pain, it’s time to call your dentist. Persistent or severe symptoms, such as swelling, fever, or extreme sensitivity, may indicate a need for urgent care.

How to Manage Toothaches & Headaches

While professional diagnosis and treatment are usually necessary for long-term relief, here are some immediate steps you can take to manage the discomfort at home.

Home Remedies

• Warm Saltwater Rinse: Reduces bacteria and soothes inflamed gums.
• Cold Compress: Apply a cold pack to your cheek to reduce swelling and numb the pain.

Over-the-Counter Relief

Standard pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can temporarily relieve headaches and mild toothaches.

Preventative Care

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Manage Stress: Stress often leads to teeth grinding, which contributes to headaches. Consider meditation or stress management techniques.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Your dentist can catch issues before they become more significant problems.

If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist for a custom mouthguard. It’s a game-changer for preventing jaw tension and related headaches.

Do Your Teeth Hurt? Don’t Ignore the Signs

At Smyl Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping you live pain-free with healthy teeth and gums. Whether you have a cavity, gum disease, or something more complex, our dedicated team is here to provide expert care tailored to your needs.

While headaches and toothaches can feel like an annoying tag team, they don’t have to disrupt your life. If you’re experiencing recurring symptoms, trust your instincts and contact professionals who can help. A dentist is your go-to for tackling oral health problems, while your healthcare provider will rule out non-dental causes. Book your appointment at Smyl today—we’ll take care of the pain so you can focus on what matters most.