Is It Normal to Have Headaches After Upper Left Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Headache the day after upper left wisdom tooth extraction?

Is it normal to experience a headache on the left side, around the temple area, the day after the extraction of the upper left wisdom tooth, while having no headache on the right side? How many days will it take for this to alleviate?

Gio, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/21

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Gio,
Hello! After the extraction of your upper left wisdom tooth, experiencing a headache the next day is not uncommon.
The nerve associated with the upper left wisdom tooth is part of the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve, while the temple area is innervated by the temporal branch of the trigeminal nerve.
The human body functions as a whole, and these areas can influence each other.
If there is no infection, you should see improvement within a week.
Take care of yourself! Wishing you peace and smooth recovery!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/01/21

More Info

Experiencing headaches after upper left wisdom tooth surgery can be a common occurrence, and there are several factors that contribute to this phenomenon. The human body is interconnected, and pain or discomfort in one area can often lead to sensations in another. In your case, the headache localized around the temple area on the left side may be related to the surgical procedure and the surrounding anatomical structures.

The upper wisdom teeth are closely associated with the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face. When a tooth is extracted, especially one that is impacted or has been in the jaw for a long time, the surrounding tissues, including nerves, muscles, and even the jaw joint, can become inflamed or irritated. This irritation can manifest as referred pain, which may explain why you are experiencing a headache in the temple region.

Typically, post-operative headaches can be attributed to several factors, including:
1. Tension and Stress: The anxiety associated with dental procedures can lead to muscle tension in the jaw and neck, which can trigger headaches.

2. Pain Medication: Sometimes, the medications prescribed for pain relief can have side effects that include headaches.

3. Dehydration: After surgery, patients may not drink enough fluids, leading to dehydration, which can also cause headaches.

4. Changes in Bite: After the extraction of a tooth, the alignment of your bite may change, leading to discomfort and headaches.

In terms of duration, headaches following wisdom tooth extraction typically improve within a few days to a week. If there are no signs of infection, such as fever, increased swelling, or pus, it is reasonable to expect that the headache will gradually subside as the surgical site heals. However, if the headache persists beyond a week or worsens, it is advisable to consult your dentist or oral surgeon to rule out any complications, such as dry socket or infection.

In summary, while it is normal to experience headaches after upper left wisdom tooth surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If the headache is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or does not improve, seeking further evaluation is crucial. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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