It’s a common experience to develop tooth pain or sensitivity when you’re struck down with a cold, flu, or other illness. While it may seem like a strange symptom to experience when you’re fighting off an infection in another part of your body, there are actually a number of reasons why your teeth may hurt when you’re sick. Here, we’ll explore the causes of dental pain during illness and provide some tips for relieving discomfort.
How do you relieve sinus pressure in your teeth?
One of the most common culprits behind tooth pain during illness is sinus pressure. When you have a cold or flu, your sinuses can become congested and inflamed, which can put pressure on your teeth and cause referred pain. To relieve sinus pressure and reduce tooth pain, consider trying some of these home remedies:
- Use a saline nasal spray or neti pot to flush out your sinuses and reduce inflammation.
- Place a warm, damp towel over your sinuses and cheeks to help loosen congestion.
- Drink plenty of fluids to thin out mucus and help flush out your sinuses.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
Is there a virus that makes your teeth hurt?
While any illness can potentially cause tooth pain or sensitivity, there are some viruses that are more likely to affect your teeth and gums. One of the most well-known examples is the herpes simplex virus, which can cause painful mouth sores and ulcers. Another is the Coxsackie virus, which is known for causing painful sores in the mouth and throat. If you’re experiencing tooth pain in conjunction with other symptoms of these viruses, it may be worth consulting with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
Can Covid make your teeth hurt?
While Covid-19 primarily affects the lungs and respiratory system, some individuals have reported experiencing dental pain as a symptom of the virus. This may be due to the fact that the virus can cause inflammation and swelling throughout the body, which can affect the teeth and gums in some cases. Additionally, if you’re experiencing Covid-related sinus pressure, as is common with many other respiratory illnesses, this can also lead to tooth pain or sensitivity. If you’re concerned that your tooth pain may be related to Covid-19, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider and get tested if necessary.
Why do teeth hurt when you have a cold?
As mentioned earlier, when you have a cold or flu, your sinuses can become congested and inflamed, which can put pressure on your teeth and cause referred pain. Additionally, many people tend to clench their jaw or grind their teeth when they’re sick, which can lead to dental pain or sensitivity. Finally, dehydration is a common side effect of many illnesses, which can cause the mouth to become dry and increase the risk of tooth decay and sensitivity.
Overall, tooth pain or sensitivity during illness is a common yet often unpleasant experience. By understanding the causes of dental pain during illness and taking steps to relieve discomfort, you can help make your recovery process a bit more comfortable.
References
- “Tooth Pain: Causes and Treatment.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 26 Oct. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/tooth-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050901.
- “Tooth Pain: Possible Causes and Remedies.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 29 Apr. 2021, www.healthline.com/health/tooth-pain.
- “Covid-19: Symptom Checker.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22 Dec. 2020, www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html.