If you’ve ever experienced tooth pain while you’re sick, you’re not alone. Many people report feeling toothaches or sensitivity when they’re battling a cold, flu, sinus infection. But what’s the connection between sickness and tooth pain? Here are a few reasons why this phenomenon occurs:
- Sinus pressure.
- When you’re congested, your sinuses can become inflamed and press against the roots of your teeth. This pressure can cause pain or discomfort in your teeth and gums, even if you don’t have any dental issues.
- Mouth breathing.
- If you’re congested, you may find yourself breathing through your mouth more often than usual. This can cause your mouth to become dry, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Both of these conditions can cause tooth pain or sensitivity.
- Tooth grinding.
- Some people grind their teeth when they’re sick, either due to stress or as a side effect of certain medications. This can cause wear and tear on the teeth, which can lead to sensitivity or pain.
- Oral hygiene.
- When you’re sick, you may not feel up to brushing and flossing as often as usual. This can allow bacteria to build up in your mouth, which can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
What can you do to prevent your teeth hurt when you’re sick?
- Stay hydrated.
- Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your mouth moist and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Do the toothbrushing right.
- Brush and floss regularly, even if you don’t feel up to it. This can help remove bacteria and food particles from your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Use a saline nasal spray.
- This can help reduce inflammation in your sinuses, which can alleviate tooth pain caused by sinus pressure.
- Talk to your dentist.
- If your teeth hurt when you’re sick and that feeling doesn’t go away after your illness has subsided, it’s important to talk to your dentist. They can rule out any dental issues that may be causing the pain and recommend treatment if necessary.
In conclusion, tooth pain when you’re sick is a common phenomenon that can be caused by sinus pressure, mouth breathing, tooth grinding, and poor oral hygiene. By staying hydrated, practicing good oral hygiene, using a saline nasal spray, and talking to your dentist, you can reduce your risk of experiencing tooth pain during your next illness.
How to cope with tooth pain as a temporary measure?
While illness can certainly cause tooth pain, it’s important to remember that not all tooth pain is caused by it. Tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues can also cause tooth pain, so it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly.
Pain relievers can help temporarily. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate tooth pain. However, you should always talk to your doctor before taking any new medications.
Mental health can play its role so that your teeth hurt when you’re not sick. It’s worth noting that your wellbeing can also play a role in tooth grinding and tooth pain. Stress and anxiety can cause people to clench or grind their teeth, which can lead to sensitivity and pain. If you’re experiencing tooth pain and think it may be related to something caused by mental health, it’s worth talking to your doctor or a mental health professional. Here is a list of healthcare providers you can reach out to.