Is It Normal for Teeth to Hurt When You’re Sick?

Being sick is hard enough – now your teeth also hurt? It’s a nightmare! If you are sick and have toothache problems, then one of the issues is probably “Why do my teeth hurt when I am sick?”. It is safe to say that you are not the only one who has ever faced this problem. The majority of people experience toothaches all of a sudden while they have a cold, the flu, or a sinus infection. Is it just a normal occurrence? Let’s examine this issue.

If the pain consists of a toothache nature, in the upper molar area, or sensitivity to chewing, or even is a dull pain in the jaw profile, then we should know that there is an unexpected bond between the two – being sick and having tooth pain. And also be assured that it is not necessary that your toothache is due to the presence of a cavity or a dental emergency. Sometimes, the body is just a bit too overwhelming.

Sinus Pressure Can Trigger Tooth Pain

The most frequent reason for tooth pain during illness is connected with the sinus pressure. Sinusitis, a cold, or some other disease causing the formation of mucus in the maxillary sinuses are some of the most common triggers of the toothache in this period of time.

A healthy lifestyle, as well as a well-planned workout, is conducive not only to the strengthening but also to the growth of this skeletal system. The right food and the right exercises are the two factors that contribute to a healthier lifestyle, a better mental and physical condition, and a significant improvement in one’s looks.

While I know it may sound quite unbelievable and implausible, it is however, a fact that the sinuses above the upper jaw can lead to tooth pain if they get stopped up, and then fill with the infusion of mucus. That situation will provoke your toothache to move to the upper part of the jaw. According to the doctor, it’s quite normal that the nose and teeth go through such situations.

In case the pain is relieved at a given moment, the sinuses seem cleared from the impurity, so most probably, the teeth are not affected.

Inflammation and Fever Can Make Your Gums Extra Sensitive

During the time when your body can become the battleground, inflammation often occurs as a reaction of your whole system to the attack of a pathogen, and the more it occurs, the greater it becomes. Unluckily, such events of inflammation might also lead to swelling, soreness, bleeding, and sensitivity in one’s gums. This situation, though rather unpleasant, doesn’t necessarily mean that the teeth truly cause any pain.

Fever or not drinking enough water are common factors that can make the mouth and gums feel quite dry, which in turn can lead to tender gums and eventually the pain around the teeth intensifies. Thus, if the mouth feels unusually painful during illness, it is due to the immune system’s activation.

Bruxism: Clenching Your Teeth Without Realizing It

Were you aware that some individuals who are stressed or unwell clench their teeth more? This is what is called bruxism, and the result of it can be sore jaws and teeth, feeling very sore, especially in the morning.

Another common way that a disease can wake you up at night and help you be more stressed and do more clenching or grinding during sleep is by it making you sick. The strain against teeth can cause either a dull or a sharp type of pain, even in the teeth that have never had any problems before.

Dehydration and Dry Mouth Make It Worse

If you have a fever or are taking cold medication, your body loses more water than it does on a regular basis. A deficiency of the body’s fluids and a dry mouth not only feels uncomfortable, but it can also cause tooth and gum pain.

Your mouth, with the help of saliva, has three protective functions: it eliminates bacteria, coats the enamel, and offers comfort. But, in the case of dry mouth, the bacteria are less likely to be washed away and, thus, may instigate the irritation. Ergo, when you are ill, it is essential not to lose fluids.

Tooth Pain During Sickness: When to See a Dentist

Sometimes, tooth pain may occur when someone is sick, only to disappear soon after. In that case, it is probably not of great concern. However, there are some situations when this is an exception.

These are the cases when contacting your dentist is the wisest thing to do:

• The pain is severe, pulsating, or persists even after your healing process
• Your gums are swollen or you have some kind of pus around the gum line
• Your pain gets worse when you are in a recumbent or sitting position or when you have hot/cold foods.
• The ache is present in just one tooth (not multiple).

These symptoms can very likely be something other than just a sinus infection or your body fighting off some fever — it could be a cavity, abscess, or nerve problem.

How to Alleviate Tooth Pain While Being Ill

Here is a list of some of the easy-to-do measures for a toothache that can help you through your illness at the moment:

• Release any facial tension by applying a warm, moist cloth on your face near the area of infection in order to relieve any sinus pressure.
• You may also try gargling warm water that has a mixture of salt on the affected part if you feel pain because of swollen gums.
• The two most suitable drinks for keeping you hydrated are water and herbal tea.
• Refrain from consuming edgy, solid or cold meals.
• If the pain becomes intolerable, you can always consider purchasing OTC painkillers.

Also, maintain good oral hygiene, such as brushing your teeth and flossing lightly, even if you’re sick. It can make a big difference.

A Healthy Mouth Even When You’re Ill Keeps You Pain-Free in The Long Run

It is very important to visit your dentist even if you are no longer experiencing your toothache after your illness.

If you have lost a tooth due to a cavity or gum disease, your other healthy teeth may still not look good or be painless. Therefore, many people opt for dental veneers, dental implants, and a full smile makeover to fix both physical appearance and functionality, especially on patients with a history of minor issues like grinding or gum inflammation.

Final Thoughts: Nothing to Panic but Please Take It Seriously

When you experience a toothache while you are sick, understand that it’s something that happens to most people, and it’s expected.
It’s not a situation that you should disregard (this is a pun). From a congested nose, dehydration, or frequent clenching, your teeth can be extra sensitive when you don’t feel well. The good news is that the aggravation usually subsides by itself.

Aside from this, if you always get scared and unsure whether to contact a doctor when you get sick or not, going through a dental makeover can be something that might be crossing your mind right now.

What Can Lema Dental Clinic Do For You?

In a nutshell, Lema Dental Clinic from Istanbul takes the view that people should never have to endure any form of uncomfortable sensitivity or toothache, be it caused by a mere disease or any deeper issue. Our professional staff is eager to assist you in recovering your smile through very modern treatments such as veneers, implants, and Hollywood Smile makeovers.

We not only treat your pain, we also bring out your charm. Make an appointment now and you will feel the distinction.

FAQ: Tooth Pain When Sick