Colds and Oral Health

woman with a cold blowing her nose into a tissue

Between the sniffling, snot and sneezing, do you ever stop to ask yourself, “Why do my teeth hurt when I have a cold?”

Sinuses are air chambers that rest behind your cheeks, eyebrows, and jawbones. They have tiny hairs (“cilia”) inside them, which help clean out mucus and keep air chambers free of debris.

However, when you get a cold, the chambers can get blocked with excess mucus. The bacteria begin to spread, which often results in illness. Since one of the air chambers is located above and behind the upper jaw, it can cause what seems like a serious toothache when in fact it is just sinus pain.

Other illnesses that may be the root of all of your (tooth pain) evil:

  • The flu
  • Sinus infection

 If your tooth pain continues even after your cold is gone, you may have a dental problem. Make an appointment with your dentist so you know for sure. After all, it could cost you a vacation.