PLANTATION, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--More than 37 million people in the U.S., and more than 1 billion worldwide, experience migraines, according to the American Migraine Foundation. June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, aimed at increasing understanding and advocating for increased medical research and treatment options for these often-debilitating medical conditions.
Research has shown that specific triggers raise the risk of having a migraine attack. These triggers include bright light, changes in barometric pressure, allergies, high humidity, hormonal fluctuations, obesity, medication overuse, specific smells and foods, lack of sleep and/or high stress.
Migraine and headache pain may also be caused or significantly aggravated by a dental health issue. Some of the most common dental issues associated with headaches and/or migraines include:
- Bad Bite: Loose, missing, sore or misaligned teeth create a "bad bite," which forces jaw muscles to work harder to bring teeth together, swallow and even keep the mouth closed. This can lead to persistent muscle inflammation that can trigger a migraine or headache.
- Grinding or clenching the teeth: can also cause muscle and gum inflammation, triggering migraines and headaches. Many people are unaware that they gnash their teeth. Sore jaws, a clicking sound when opening the mouth, a dull constant headache that originates around the temples or behind the eyes, tender teeth, trouble opening and closing one's mouth, and even tongue indentations are typical signs of tooth grinding.
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay or gum disease can "refer" pain to the head, making the person believe he or she suffers from headaches rather than an oral infection. A throbbing toothache can also trigger a migraine episode or a headache.
Some dentists have observed that patients who frequently experience “one-sided” headaches or migraines, often have bad bite issues. For anyone experiencing symptoms like these, it is important to see a dentist regularly and keep dental professionals informed about their headache or migraine history. If patients are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, the issue can sometimes be corrected with a simple dental procedure, orthodontic treatment or by wearing a mouth guard at night to eliminate teeth grinding.
"Unfortunately, when people can't afford to see a dentist regularly, dental issues that cause headaches and other health complications can be misdiagnosed or go untreated," said Bill Chase, senior vice president of marketing at DentalPlans.com. "Dental savings plans can help address numerous health problems, since oral health is linked to one’s overall health, and may impact or even help prevent many diseases and medical conditions."
Dental savings plans are an affordable alternative to dental insurance, providing plan members with 10-60% discounts on most dental services from a nationwide network of participating dentists. Dental savings plans often include discounts on services such as vision care, eyeglasses/contact lenses and telehealth care, which can also help people address the other common headache triggers.
Learn more at www.dentalplans.com
About DentalPlans.com
DentalPlans.com, founded in 1999, is a leading dental and health savings online marketplace in the U.S., helping more than a million people to affordably access quality healthcare services. Our mission is to empower consumers with the tools, information, and services that they need to live happier, healthier lives. www.dentalplans.com.
