June is National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month
June is National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, which serves to increase awareness of migraines and headaches as neurological diseases that can be debilitating.
While dentists primarily focus on oral health, they are also aware of connections between oral health and other areas of the body, including headaches and migraines. Migraines affect over 39 million Americans, with symptoms varying in severity and including throbbing or aching head pain, sensitivity to light and noise, blurred vision, neck pain, vomiting, and nausea. Migraines can be treated with lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both.
Migraines and Headaches: The Dental Connection
Recent research has explored a link between migraines and dental health, particularly poor bite or habitual teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching. A bad bite can place undue pressure on the muscles in the jaw, neck, and at the base of the skull, leading to migraines or severe headaches. Similarly, constantly clenching or grinding teeth can tire out these muscles, resulting in painful headaches or migraines. While no absolute cause of migraines or headaches exists, a bad bite or bruxism may contribute to their development. Dentists and the medical community encourage those experiencing chronic headaches or migraines to seek proper diagnosis and treatment. Advancements in medicine have led to new and improved treatments available every day.
How Your Dentist Can Help
If you grind or clench your teeth at night, an occlusal guard can substantially reduce or even eliminate the resulting headaches. Please call your nearest Dentistry of the Carolinas office today to schedule an appointment with your dentist and discuss this option further.
