Tooth and Temple Pain: Is It Related to Neck Nerve Compression?

Pain in the upper and lower right teeth, as well as pain in the temples?

This afternoon, I suddenly experienced pain in my upper and lower right teeth, which later extended to my right temple.
Last year, I visited a neurosurgeon due to neck pain, and an MRI revealed a herniated disc and nerve compression causing chest pain.
I underwent traction, far-infrared heat therapy for my chest, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy for my neck, which alleviated the chest pain.
I have epilepsy and take the medications Depakene 500 mg and Keppra 500 mg.
Could the pain in my teeth and temple be caused by nerve compression in my neck?

Zeze, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/28

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
Ze,
You mentioned, "Is the toothache along with the pain in the temples possibly due to cervical nerve compression?" This symptom indeed warrants consideration of high cervical nerve root compression, specifically involving the first to third cervical vertebrae.
The nerves pass through the trigeminal nerve nucleus.
These symptoms can also be prevalent in patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome.
I recommend that in addition to consulting a rehabilitation specialist, you may also consider discussing this with an oral surgeon at the same hospital.
If the oral surgeon rules out any structural abnormalities, they typically refer the patient to the hospital's neurology department.
Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have any related questions, feel free to discuss further!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi
Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2023/01/28

More Info

Tooth and temple pain can indeed be related to neck nerve compression, particularly if you have a history of cervical spine issues such as a herniated disc, which you mentioned in your previous medical evaluations. The cervical spine houses nerves that can affect various areas of the head and face, including the teeth and temples.
When the cervical spine is compromised, such as through herniated discs or other forms of nerve compression, it can lead to referred pain. This means that the pain is felt in a different location than where the actual problem lies. Specifically, the nerves that exit the cervical spine can influence sensations in the jaw, teeth, and even the temples due to their anatomical pathways. The first three cervical nerves (C1-C3) are particularly significant in this regard, as they can affect the areas innervated by the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face, including the teeth and temples.

Your symptoms of tooth pain followed by temple pain could suggest that the nerve roots in your cervical spine are being irritated or compressed, leading to these sensations. The trigeminal nerve, which has branches that innervate the teeth and the temporal region, can be affected by issues in the cervical spine. This is especially true if there is any inflammation or irritation of the surrounding tissues that can occur with nerve compression.

Moreover, stress and anxiety can exacerbate pain perception. Given that you have a history of neck pain and have undergone treatments such as traction and heat therapy, it's possible that the ongoing tension in your neck could be contributing to your symptoms. Stress can lead to muscle tension, which may further irritate the nerves in the cervical region, creating a cycle of pain that can manifest in various areas, including the teeth and temples.

It is also worth noting that dental issues can sometimes mimic or overlap with nerve-related pain. For instance, conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can cause pain in the jaw and temples, which may be mistaken for nerve-related pain. Therefore, it is essential to consider both dental and neurological evaluations to rule out any underlying issues.

Given your history of cervical spine problems and the current symptoms you are experiencing, it would be prudent to consult with a neurologist or a pain specialist who can perform a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI of the cervical spine, to assess for any changes that may be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, a referral to a dentist or an oral surgeon may be beneficial to rule out any dental causes for your tooth pain.

In summary, while your symptoms of tooth and temple pain could be related to neck nerve compression, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause. Addressing both the cervical spine issues and any potential dental problems will be crucial in managing your pain effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Neurological Pain: Causes and Solutions for Head and Neck Discomfort

Hello Dr. Yeh, about a month ago, I started experiencing throbbing pain in my left temple. After two or three days, the pain spread to the entire left side of my neck and above, including my head, temple, ear area, left jaw, left posterior head, and shoulders. The pain became so ...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: 1. Toothache and neck pain should not be related. 2. It may be tendonitis of the neck; try applying a warm compress without rubbing. 3. If there is no improvement, please consult a neurologist for examination.

Understanding Cervical Nerve Compression and TMJ Disorders

Hello, doctor. Starting from October 2023, I began experiencing hand numbness, which later progressed to spasms in my hands and feet. After undergoing X-rays at the neurology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation departments, the rehabilitation physician informed me that these are cla...

Dr. Chen Weida reply Neurology
Hello, Pain Patient: Your current pain may be due to chronic myofascial pain syndrome. Since the pain has spread from the upper back to affect the temporomandibular joint, it is recommended that you consult a neurologist for further evaluation and early treatment of the chronic p...

Understanding Neck and Jaw Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, I am the one who recently strained my neck and temporomandibular joint. I would like to ask what could be the cause of the tingling sensation after the neck strain. Recently, when I move my mouth (talking) or eat, I feel a tingling sensation in the area just below t...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Miss: You mentioned that there is a tingling sensation in the area just below the back of your head and above your throat... and that you also feel something in the lower back of your head. This may indicate that the nerves in the upper cervical spine are being compressed....

Understanding Jaw Pain and Neck Issues: Causes and Solutions

Hello, I previously pulled something near my jaw, and at that moment, I was so nervous that I kept pressing and swallowing repeatedly, which eventually caused it to retract. Now, I feel swelling and pain on both sides of my jaw, and when I press, there is a very painful lump. My ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is common to have lymph nodes in the neck. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.