Filling this gap is an area of research that connects the oral microbiome to migraine headaches. This seminal research may pave the way for new breakthrough therapeutic alternatives. This emerging concept, referred to as the “Oral Microbiome-Nervous System Axis,” suggests that the complex community of microorganisms residing in the mouth may influence neurological conditions, including migraines.
The oral microbiome, which supports a diverse ecosystem is home to about 700 bacterial, viral, fungal, and other microbial species. With over 700 taxa, the oral microbiome is the second most diverse microbiome found in the human body. It is essential for preventing disease and promoting health. Mei-Hsuan Lee, PhD, is a professor at the Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan. Here, she underscores the crucial nature of that connection.
Sharon Erdrich, PhD candidate, University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sharon recently led research on an intriguing topic. Her research explores the connection between oral health and migraines. In fact, the study had over 150 women younger than 75. Each of them had to fill out an extensive questionnaire modelled off the World Health Organization’s oral health survey. This data collection sought to find possible correlations between oral microbiome health and migraine occurrence and severity.
Prior to having any microbiome data, I was very hands on in assessing the survey data. I was completely unprepared to find such compelling signals connecting oral health to each and every pain outcome we focused on,” said Erdrich. Her findings indicate that keeping oral health in order could play an important role in alleviating migraine onset and severity.
The study is in agreement with earlier research showing that many genes are involved in determining a person’s chances of suffering from migraines. Eric Viirre, MD, PhD, is adjunct professor in the Department of Neurosciences at the University of California San Diego. He emphasizes the fact that genetic factors account for almost 40% to 50% of a migraine’s risk. He added that “all of these pain syndromes – fibromyalgia, chronic pain syndromes, and TMJ, for example – have multiple factors.”
A notable link exists between migraines and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), as evidenced by a 2020 study from researchers in Korea. Patients with concomitant periodontitis and chronic migraine exhibit increased levels of CGRP. This pro-inflammatory neuropeptide is thought to be key in the pathology of migraine.
One particular oral bacterium that has captivated researchers’ attention for decades is Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa). That’s because this bacterium produces specific peptides that signal the body to start producing antibodies. Unfortunately, this normal process can sometimes go awry and promote autoimmune processes such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The connection between oral health and migraines raises important questions about prevention. Sharon Erdrich advocates for maintaining a balanced oral microbiome, stating, “To restore a balance of bacteria in the mouth, that helps to keep the pathogens at bay.”
While these studies present promising insights into the potential link between oral health and migraine management, further research is necessary. As scientists work to understand this complex relationship, they grapple with the ever-present task of disambiguating many of the factors at play. Viirre elaborated on this complexity: “There’s steps along the way in the pathways. Where do these things attach? How do they attach? How do they adjust? We’re still learning about that.”
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