Toothache During a Cold

Cold-Induced Toothache

A cold can not only cause toothache but also other symptoms such as sore throat, earache, and an inflamed nasal mucosa. These symptoms are often interconnected because they all arise from the overburdened immune system fighting the infection. However, if the toothache persists beyond the cold, an inflammation of the tooth root might be the cause. In this case, it is advisable to consult an ENT doctor or dentist to determine the exact cause. Sometimes, there might be an underlying infection that may require an antibiotic to combat it. Existing fillings or dental prosthetics can also become more sensitive to the pressure caused by a clogged nasal mucosa. If the pain persists longer, a comprehensive examination may be necessary to ensure that no further complications arise.

Learn more in the following paragraphs.

Causes of Toothache During a Cold

Common causes of toothache include cavities, periodontitis or diseases of the dental nerves. However, there are other reasons for these pains. For example, an inflammation of the sinuses. When you catch a cold, your body works hard to combat the infection and can cause a sinus infection. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the sinuses and the entire jaw as this inflammation spreads to the cavities in your mouth and jaw. The pain is often perceived as toothache in the upper jaw teeth because the tooth roots in the upper jaw are very long and the root tips lie in the sinus. The pain is also felt throughout the jaw and not just on the individual tooth.

A blocked nose can also cause toothache. If the nose is blocked due to swelling of the mucous membrane and accumulated secretions, the pressure also affects the teeth. The feeling of pressure is perceived as uncomfortable.

Dehydration is also a factor in toothache when you have a cold, as saliva helps to moisten your mouth and wash away food particles that may have been left behind after eating. However, if you are congested due to a cold, the saliva will have trouble reaching these areas in the mouth, leading to more bacteria forming and causing increased pain. Finally, the blowing of your nose and sneezing associated with a cold can damage your tooth surfaces, leading to further discomfort when you try to eat or drink something hot or cold. By taking good care of yourself during a cold, you can reduce some of these factors and maintain healthy teeth.

Toothaches can be a big problem not just because of the intense pain, but also because they can affect your daily activities. Certain bad habits such as clenching your teeth and chewing hard objects can put a lot of stress on the nerves in your teeth and lead to unpleasant toothache.

Sinusitis and cold-related toothache

Sinusitis, known as sinus infection, and toothache are closely linked because the inflammation spreads to the mouth and jaw area during a cold. When we have a cold, our body releases mucus which accumulates around the teeth and gums causing pressure that manifests as a toothache. This happens because the excess mucus prevents the saliva from reaching these areas, allowing bacteria to build up and cause further pain.

Chronic sinusitis

Not only a cold can lead to sinusitis and toothache, but chronic sinusitis, caused by a dead or infected tooth, can also result in facial swelling and even blindness if left untreated. Treatment options include antibiotics, surgical drainage procedures, and in some cases the removal of the tooth. To prevent this, good dental health is important. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day, using dental floss, and scheduling regular professional dental cleanings. In addition, consuming healthy foods rich in antioxidants can boost your body's natural defences, making it easier to fight off infections. Therefore, it's important to take good care of yourself during a period of illness to reduce the risk of toothache caused by an infection or tooth decay.

Chronic maxillary sinusitis

Maxillary sinusitis (Sinusitis maxillaris) is a specific form of sinusitis. It is a serious condition that can be caused by a decayed or infected tooth. When an infection occurs in the maxillary sinus, the tissue in this area becomes inflamed, leading to pain, congestion, and breathing difficulties. The cause of chronic maxillary sinusitis from a dead tooth is multifactorial and may include bacterial overgrowth, bone erosion, and airway obstruction due to periodontal disease or structural anomalies. The bacteria commonly causing these infections are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Staphylococcus aureus. The inhibition of the body's natural defences by these bacteria results in chronic inflammation, which in turn contributes to the development of chronic maxillary sinusitis due to a dead tooth. Treatment for this condition includes antibiotics, surgical drainage procedures, and, if necessary, removal of the tooth.

Home Remedies for Toothache

Cold Compress: Fast relief through cooling

If you suffer from a toothache due to a cold, one of the simplest and most effective methods is using a cold compress. This has an anti-inflammatory effect by constricting blood vessels, thus reducing swelling and pain. You can place an ice pack or a chilled element wrapped in a cloth on the affected area. Be sure not to apply the compress directly to the skin to avoid frostbite. Regular cold applications for 10 to 15 minutes can help noticeably relieve the pain.

Essential Oils: Relief through Inhalation

Another helpful method is inhaling essential oils. Essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. By inhaling the steam, not only is your stuffy nose relieved, but the pressure in the sinuses is reduced, which in turn can alleviate toothache. A steam bath with a few drops of essential oil can be conducted several times a day to achieve the desired effect.

Saltwater Solution: Natural Disinfection

Additionally, a mouth rinse with saltwater offers a simple and effective way to combat pain. Salt has a natural antiseptic effect that can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth. To prepare this rinse, dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth thoroughly. This rinse cleanses the affected areas, promotes healing, and alleviates pain. Repeat this process several times a day, especially after meals.

Gentle Relief for Cold-Induced Toothache

With these simple home remedies, you can effectively ease the discomfort of cold-induced toothache without immediately resorting to strong painkillers.

If it gets worse, however, taking ibuprofen or another painkiller can help alleviate the symptoms and reduce the swelling of the mucous membranes.

If the pain persists

Mild or even sharp pains in the mouth should not be ignored, as they could indicate a problem that should be discussed with a professional. If the pain persists for more than a few days, it's important that you see a professional to investigate a possible infection. At our studio, you can book an oral health check and receive advice. If there is an infection, an effective treatment plan must be developed to ensure that the symptoms are quickly relieved and the issue is resolved. Don't delay your visit to our studio if you're in pain - the sooner you seek help, the better!

Conclusion

Toothache during a cold can be uncomfortable and worrying, but in most cases, it is a result of the inflammatory processes occurring in your body while it fights the infection. It's important to understand the causes and respond in time to avoid bigger problems. However, if the pain persists or worsens, you should definitely consult a doctor or our studio to conduct a thorough examination and treat any possible infections early. Your dental health is closely linked to your overall wellbeing – take good care of yourself and your teeth, even during a cold.