Do you suffer from chronic migraines or severe headaches? If headaches are accompanied by symptoms such as tooth pain or sensitivity, they could be caused by dental problems. Bruxism, sleep apnea, and crooked teeth are conditions that can be diagnosed and treated by Dr. Marvin Kaplan in his Cincinnati, OH office. Learn more about these dental problems and their solutions below:
Bruxism
Chronic headaches can be a symptom of bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth clenching and grinding. Bruxism often goes undiagnosed because most people experience the problem during sleep. However, bruxism can become noticeable when signs of the condition appear. Bruxism can cause headaches and chronic migraines, as well as tooth pain, muscle soreness, and tooth sensitivity. If left untreated, teeth clenching and grinding can cause damage to teeth. Bruxism may break teeth or cause teeth to become loose and fall out in the most severe cases.
Sleep Apnea
Waking up with headaches is a side effect of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when soft tissues collapse in the back of the throat, blocking the airway. Sleep apnea is also characterized by chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or dry mouth. This condition can also increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, strokes, or heart attacks.
Crooked Teeth
A misaligned bite can also cause headaches, especially because they can cause jaw pain and bruxism. Those with a misaligned bite or crooked teeth are at a higher risk for bruxism which can wear teeth down. Many people may want to straighten crooked teeth for aesthetic reasons, but straightening crooked teeth can also improve oral health. It can be difficult to clean the space between teeth when they are crooked. Because of this, bacteria can easily multiply, forming plaque and tartar.
Treatment in Cincinnati, OH
Oral appliance therapy can help treat bruxism and mild to moderate sleep apnea. Oral appliances act like mouth guards and are worn keep teeth from touching. They also open up airways to make it easier for patients to breathe during sleep. After oral appliance therapy, damaged teeth can be treated with cosmetic and restorative options.
Crooked teeth can be treated with Invisalign. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed for meals and brushing and flossing teeth. The aligners are also comfortable and do not pinch patient’s gums.
Schedule a Dental Appointment Today
Treat chronic headaches at the source. Call Dr. Kaplan and his professional dental team today at (513) 342-2644. You can also schedule an appointment online here.