When you’re sick, your teeth may start to ache, leaving you wondering, “Why does my teeth hurt when I’m sick?” The answer lies in the connection between oral health and the immune system.
As your body fights off illness, it can inadvertently impact your teeth and gums, causing discomfort.
Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help you take better care of your dental health during times of sickness.
Let’s dive into the details of why your teeth might be hurting and how you can find relief.
Why Does My Teeth Hurt When I’m Sick
Being sick can be no fun at all. It comes with a runny nose, coughs, sore throat, and sometimes even a fever. But have you ever noticed that sometimes when you’re sick, your teeth also start to hurt? It’s quite a strange sensation, isn’t it? Let’s dive into the reasons why your teeth might hurt when you’re under the weather.
1. Sinus Infections
Sinuses are these air-filled spaces in our skulls, and when we get a cold or the flu, they can get all clogged up with mucus. This blockage can cause pressure to build up in your sinuses and even affect your teeth. The upper back teeth are located close to the sinuses, so when they get congested, the pressure can make your teeth ache.
How to Relieve Sinus-Related Tooth Pain:
If you suspect that your tooth pain is due to a sinus infection, you can try some simple remedies at home. Drinking plenty of water, using a humidifier, and inhaling steam can help to clear your sinuses. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also provide some relief.
2. Tooth Grinding
When we’re sick, our bodies can undergo stress, and this stress might lead to teeth grinding, especially during sleep. Grinding your teeth can cause significant discomfort and even lead to tooth sensitivity and pain.
How to Manage Tooth Grinding:
If you find yourself grinding your teeth when you’re sick, try to be mindful of it during the day. You can also talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to wear while sleeping, which can protect your teeth from the effects of grinding.
3. Dehydration
When you’re sick, your body loses a lot of fluids through fever, sweating, and mucus production. Dehydration can make your mouth dry, and when your mouth isn’t producing enough saliva, it can lead to tooth pain and sensitivity.
Stay Hydrated:
Drinking plenty of water is essential when you’re sick to prevent dehydration. You can also suck on ice chips or chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production and keep your mouth moist.
4. Tooth Decay
When we’re feeling under the weather, we may not have the energy or motivation to stick to our regular oral hygiene routine. Skipping brushing and flossing can allow harmful bacteria to thrive in our mouths, leading to tooth decay and cavities, which can cause tooth pain.
Preventing Tooth Decay:
Even when you’re not feeling well, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep bacteria at bay.
5. Jaw Tension
When we’re sick, we sometimes tense our jaws without even realizing it. This tension can put stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing tooth pain and discomfort.
Relax Your Jaw:
Try to be mindful of any jaw tension and make a conscious effort to relax your jaw throughout the day. You can gently massage the jaw muscles or apply a warm compress to alleviate tension.
Remember, our bodies are intricately connected, and when we’re sick, it can manifest in various ways, including tooth pain. By understanding the possible reasons behind why your teeth hurt when you’re sick, you can take steps to alleviate the discomfort and focus on getting better soon!
Why Does My Teeth Hurt When I'm Sick? – The Pro Dentist
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes tooth pain during sickness?
Tooth pain during sickness can be attributed to various factors, such as sinus congestion putting pressure on the teeth and gums, dehydration leading to dry mouth and increased bacteria growth, or even an underlying dental issue that is aggravated by a weakened immune system when you are sick.
How can sinus congestion contribute to tooth pain when sick?
Sinus congestion can result in increased pressure in the sinus cavities, which are located near the upper jaw and teeth. This pressure can radiate to the teeth, causing discomfort and pain. Additionally, the inflammation in the sinus cavities can impact the nerves connected to the teeth, leading to heightened sensitivity and pain.
Can dehydration make my teeth hurt when I’m sick?
Dehydration can indeed impact your oral health and contribute to tooth pain when you are sick. When your body is dehydrated, it produces less saliva, which is essential for maintaining oral health by washing away bacteria and food particles. Insufficient saliva can result in a dry mouth, allowing bacteria to thrive and potentially lead to tooth decay and discomfort.
Final Thoughts
When you’re sick, your body’s immune response may lead to sinus congestion, causing pressure on the teeth and jaw. This pressure can result in tooth pain and sensitivity. Additionally, dehydration from being ill can impact saliva production, leading to dry mouth and potential dental discomfort. Remember, “why does my teeth hurt when I’m sick” is a common question, but understanding the underlying issues can help you manage and alleviate the discomfort during illness.