The trigeminal nerve is the largest sensory nerve in the head. This nerve supplies the face, scalp, jaw, teeth, and other cranial structures. As a result, headaches and toothaches actually both transmit through this same nerve. Unfortunately, pain in one area of the nerve has the potential to activate pain in other areas of the nerve. So if you crack your tooth and experience pain because of it, there is a good chance that it can also give you a migraine.
Bruxism is a good example of a dental problem that can cause head pain. Muscles begin to ache after they have been held tight for long periods of time. Not only do the clenching and grinding pressures of bruxism create pain in the teeth and gums, but they also put quite a strain on the neck. In fact, clenching your teeth causes you to inadvertently contract your neck muscles. This strain travels throughout the nerve, often triggering a cycle of pain that ends up involving the head.
If you are experiencing a large number of headaches, contact our expert in treatment of head pain in Los Angeles to schedule a consultation.