Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Headaches?

If you’ve ever had a nagging headache that just won’t fade, your wisdom teeth may be to blame. These third molars often erupt in the late teens or early twenties, and when there’s not enough room in the mouth, problems begin. Impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on neighboring teeth, strain the jaw, and even irritate nerves that extend upward into the head.

This chain reaction can leave you with tension headaches or even migraines. Many patients describe the pain as starting in the jaw and radiating toward the temples or behind the eyes. While headaches have many causes, dental issues are often overlooked.

Other Symptoms That Point to Wisdom Teeth Problems

Headaches rarely occur alone when wisdom teeth are involved. You may notice jaw soreness, swollen gums, or difficulty opening your mouth fully. In some cases, earaches and sinus pressure develop because the discomfort radiates beyond the teeth themselves.

Another sign is shifting teeth or crowding. When wisdom teeth push against your molars, they can alter your bite. This strain on the jaw joints—known as the temporomandibular joints (TMJ)—can trigger persistent head and neck pain. If you’re experiencing a combination of these issues, it’s worth getting checked.

Treatment Options and Relief

The good news is that headaches linked to wisdom teeth can often be relieved with professional dental treatment. If the teeth are impacted or causing chronic pain, extraction may be recommended. The procedure is common, safe, and provides long-term relief from the pressure that sparks headaches.

For patients not ready for removal, dentists sometimes suggest pain management strategies or monitoring with regular X-rays. This ensures that developing issues are caught before they escalate.

Wisdom Teeth Headache Care in Austin With Balcones Family Dental

If you’re in Austin and suspect your wisdom teeth are behind your headaches, Balcones Family Dental can help. Dr. Ross Maddox, Dr. Ahmed Sharaf, and Dr. Christopher Glecos have extensive experience diagnosing and treating wisdom teeth concerns. They’ll take the time to evaluate your symptoms, review X-rays, and recommend the best path forward.

Don’t let headaches interfere with your daily life. Schedule a consultation with Balcones Family Dental today to find out whether your wisdom teeth are the root of the problem—and take the first step toward relief.

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Categorized in: Wisdom Teeth