Can the flu or a cold cause toothache?
Inflammation of the nasal sinuses can cause discomfort in the upper molars. Sometimes we can feel pain in healthy teeth.
This is what can happen to us when we have a cold or the flu, processes that can be associated with toothache, as well as facilitating the appearance of some diseases in the mouth.
In this post we will explain why this can happen and what you can do to avoid it.
The link between a cold or flu and a toothache is the so-called paranasal sinuses: hollow cavities located at the back of the upper jaw through which the air we breathe through the nose passes to the lungs.
When we catch a cold or the flu, it is common for our sinuses to become inflamed and we notice congestion and pressure in them.
Being so close to the nerves of the upper molars, this pressure can affect the teeth temporarily and reversibly and transform into pain, especially when we chew.
On the other hand, the typical nasal congestion of a cold or flu makes us breathe more through our mouths, which increases dryness and, therefore, the risk of irritation.
That’s why it’s important that we stay well hydrated.
How can we ease this pain?
If your toothache has been accompanied by symptoms of a cold, flu, or sinusitis, especially sinus congestion and pressure, it is likely that the problem is not in your teeth, and therefore the pain will disappear when the pressure in the paranasal sinuses is relieved.
For this reason we can: Go to our doctor, who will be able to prescribe decongestants (we can even find some at the pharmacy without a prescription).
Painkillers can also help in some cases, and increasing water consumption.
Use a humidifier to humidify the air, which will help us eliminate any dry secretions that may have accumulated in the maxillary sinuses.
Finally, if the respiratory infection is of bacterial origin, it is important to change the toothbrush once we are over it since the bacteria can survive on the brush and cause our healing to be delayed.
It is important to go to the dentist to rule out dental pathologies, as this discomfort could be confused with that of dental caries.