Headaches are extremely common and have several underlying causes. While most people associate headaches with neurological issues or vision problems, dental health is an often-overlooked contributor. In particular, gum infections can create tension in the facial muscles and nerves, leading to recurring headaches. To understand this link between oral health and headaches, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Srijon Mukherjee, Consultant, Dental Science, Fortis Anandapur, Kolkata, who explained how gum problems may silently contribute to persistent head pain.
Also Read: Does Tooth Scaling Damage Your Teeth? Debunking Common Myths and Facts
What Are Gum Diseases?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It's primarily caused by bacteria in plaque, a sticky film that constantly forms on teeth. If not properly removed through brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums.
There are different types of gum diseases. Two primary ones are gingivitis, which is an early, mild form of gum disease where gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily, and periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease.
Can Gum Disease Cause Headaches?
According to Dr Mukherjee, the inflammation and infection associated with gum disease can spread and affect many nearby nerves, potentially triggering headaches or contributing to existing ones.
Furthermore, the body's inflammatory response to gum disease can involve the release of substances that impact pain perception and potentially trigger migraines.
Migraines affect nearly a billion people, and new research suggests the gums might have something to do with it. A review of eight studies found a possible link between chronic migraines and gum disease, with shared inflammation markers showing up in both. While most of the studies supported this connection, the research was limited by small sample sizes and self-reported data.
Dr Mukherjee added that tension-type headaches are the most common type of headache associated with gum disease. This is because the inflammation and pain from gum disease can cause muscle tension in the jaw and surrounding areas, leading to tension headaches. Additionally, gum disease can contribute to bruxism (teeth grinding), which is a known trigger for tension headaches.
Also Read: Healthy Vs. Unhealthy Gums: How To Distinguish Between The Two
Other Symptoms Of Gum Infection
Besides a headache, other signs that indicate a gum infection (gingivitis or periodontitis) include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
Treatment For Gum Disease
As per Dr Mukherjee, early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with professional cleaning and proper oral hygiene—brushing twice daily with the right technique and flossing twice a week or when food is stuck.
“Avoid vigorous flossing, as it can harm gums. Regular dental checkups are key,” he advised.
He adds that one should see a dentist for gum problems and chronic headaches when the headaches are consistent, severe, or associated with other dental symptoms like jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, or bleeding gums. “If headaches are worsening or not improving with over-the-counter pain relief, or if there are signs of infection like swelling or a bad taste in the mouth, a dental visit is recommended.”
Conclusion
While headaches can have many causes, it's important not to ignore your oral health, especially if you're also experiencing gum issues. As growing evidence suggests a link between gum disease and certain types of headaches, maintaining good dental hygiene could do more than just protect your teeth. Regular dental checkups and timely treatment of gum problems may help reduce headache frequency and improve overall well-being.