How likely or common is it for an early teen to get daily headaches after getting orthodontic braces two months ago. coincidence vs. caused by braces?

Not common: There is chance that orthodontic treatment might trigger undermined TMJ problem especially on severe crowding case. Usually pain is only unilateral and related to stress. If there is bilateral headache, please explore other causes as well.

Potentially caused: Females that had orthodontics combined with 4 premolar extractions are the most likely to develop signs and symptoms of tmd. If this young girl is undergoing this type of orthodontic correction, or any type of correction where the mandible is being repositioned, it is possible she is getting headaches due to her braces.

Occlusion Changes : There is a whole lot of "unraveling" taking place once the first active wire is positioned. As teeth begin to move, there is a moderate amount of discomfort within the oral cavity, but also, the bite begins to change. In addition, to allow crowded teeth to slip past each other, a small lump of composite is used to open the bite. These bite changes are usually what lead to the onset of headaches.

coincidence: Orthodontic braces do not cause headaches. Teeth and jaws may be sore, but "headaches" are not a consequence of orthodontic therapy.

Where Headaches?: Where are the daily headaches happening anatomically? It is not common, however, if a patient develops a clenching or grinding habbit, the discomfort usually will be demonstrated near the temporalis muscle (and massetter muscles). Have the patient point to where the 'headaches' occur. Also, is the occurrance only after waking up or all the time? Dx is the key.

Of concern: Although the occlusal changes caused by tooth movement can alter function and muscle response, the ongoing changes should allow for rapid adaptation. I would recommend neurological evaluation to rule out coincidental cause coupled with tincture of time to allow adaptation to new occlusal patterns.

Suggestive: Suggestive of occlusal/TMJ connection. Have patient evaluated by oral & maxillofacial surgeon.

NO RELATIONSHIP: According to the Cochrane Collaberation of Meta-analysis it is clear that premolar extraction does NOT have any causative effect on TMD, nor does distalization mechanics. There has been much scientific investigation on this subject and none of the peer reviewed refereed respected scientific journals have published anything to the contrary.

Braces: Ruling out any physical causes for headaches, if there is an emotional basis for it, I am wondering what it's like for this person used to having braces, and the occasional cruelty that classmates can inflict. Tension from this,especially if unreported or otherwise internalized can certainly be a contributory cause of headaches.

Not common: Although it can happen, but is not a common occurrence. I would look into other causes of headache by getting a detailed history and pattern of headache, and if it turns negative then will think about that. Patients should get used to the braces soon and headache should be self limiting.

Possible but check: Have them fill out a headache log. Pay attention to points in time when the braces are tightened or adjusted (usually every few weeks). What happens to their pain scores & symptoms within 24-48 hrs of that event? CDH as a primary disorder in teens is a rare event. If they're overmedicating due to the pain with OTC drugs then, this could also be inciting. Must consider other HA disorders as well.

Probably not coincid: I actually do not have direct experience of this with braces, but I think it is highly unlikely that it is coincidence. Might want to look at relaxation strategies, -Heart Math is a good program. I would consider sensitivity to metal as well

Cranial/TMJ manipul: Ask your local PT providers if any are trained in cranial manipulation, TMJ manipulation. Have had post concussion patients do well with this. Have also had some adolescents develop headaches after braces applied where this tx helped. Need to do appropriate w/u of headaches before chalking them up to braces.

Not abnormal: Patient needs to advise treating doctor. Maybe torqueing too fast for this patient

Consult dentist: In early teen getting headache after orthodontic braces may be the braces are not well fitted .in growing jaw at this age .But there can be other reasons for headache like sinusitis ,nasal congestion ,tension headache or pain in jaw joint .Better she/he should consult the dentist or doctor to find the cause of headache and get it treated. Teenager may be embarrassed with braces to give headach