Headaches are a common side effect of orthodontic treatment. Braces can cause pain in the teeth and jaw when tightened, but that is usually temporary. Brackets and wires apply pressure to the inside of the mouth, but it’s important not to confuse this sensation with a headache caused by brain changes.
Braces should not cause headaches.
If you are experiencing a headache when wearing braces, it’s probably because of the pressure they’re putting on your teeth and jaw. Braces will apply constant pressure to the teeth in order to move them into ideal positions over time. This pressure can leave the jaw sore for a day or two after tightening or adjusting them, which may manifest as a headache in some people. Braces themselves should not cause headaches but may be associated with them.
Headaches can also occur if you are clenching your teeth when wearing braces, which is something to watch out for. Braces put pressure on the jaw and teeth, so it’s natural that they can be an irritant until they become used to them.
Braces can also cause you to clench and grind your teeth more often than usual, which can be a trigger for headaches. Instead of clenching or grinding your teeth, it may help to wear a night guard when wearing braces at night.
How to relieve pressure from braces.
To relieve the pressure from braces and prevent discomfort, use ice packs on affected areas on the face and gum tissues. Braces shouldn’t cause headaches unless they are too tight, so it’s important to talk to your orthodontist if you believe this is the case. Braces shouldn’t cause discomfort except when adjusted or tightened; after that, soreness should subside within a day.
Headaches after orthodontic treatment are completed and braces removed are most likely not because of the braces; instead, they may be caused by something else. Braces should not cause headaches after the fact. Braces shouldn’t make your teeth or jaw sore aside from when they’re adjusted or tightened.
If you don’t wear a night guard while wearing braces at night, you may notice a throbbing or pulsing sensation in your teeth and jaw after removing them. Braces should not cause headaches unless they are too tight; otherwise, soreness from braces should subside within a day.
If you experience post-orthodontic headaches that become severe or last for more than two weeks, you should see your doctor, who may refer you to a neurologist. Braces shouldn’t cause headaches unless they are too tight or if you are clenching or grinding your teeth excessively while wearing them.
If you experience post-orthodontic headaches, it’s essential to speak to your doctor about why this might be the case and request a referral to a neurologist if necessary. Braces shouldn’t cause headaches after the fact.
Visit Vondran Orthodontics, in Little Rock, AR to start your consultation.
References Brackets and Braces: Brushing Up on Tooth Braces, http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brackets-and-braces Brushing With Braces, http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-with-braces Braces Not Linked to Headaches, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/braces Bracing Up Your Teeth, http://www.verywell.com/bracing-up-your-teeth