Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I’m Sick?

If you’ve ever noticed your teeth hurt when you’re sick, you’re not imagining it. Many people experience tooth or gum discomfort during a cold or flu, even when there’s no obvious dental problem. From sinus pressure to dehydration, illness can create several conditions that make your teeth more sensitive or even painful.

Below, we’ll explain why tooth pain with a cold or flu happens, what could be causing it, and when it’s time to see a dentist.

Common Reasons Teeth Hurt When You’re Sick

During the cold and flu season, most people aren’t worried about their dental health. They’re concerned with symptoms like sinus pain, sore throat, and fever. However, these and other common cold symptoms can trigger dental side effects.

Sinus Pressure Can Feel Like Tooth Pain

One of the most common reasons teeth ache during a cold is sinus congestion. Your maxillary sinuses sit above your teeth. When these sinuses become inflamed or filled with fluid, the pressure can push down on nearby nerves.

This can cause:

• A dull, aching sensation in the upper teeth
• Pain that worsens when bending forward
• Sensitivity on both sides of the mouth (rather than one tooth)
• Gum soreness
• Pain that may increase with chewing

This side effect is why many people ask, “Can the flu make your teeth hurt?” The answer is yes, indirectly, through sinus inflammation.

Cold Medicine and Cough Drops That Contain Sugar

When you’re sick, it’s common to rely on cough drops, syrups, or liquid cold medicines. Many of these products contain sugar or acidic ingredients that can cling to your teeth.

Frequent use can:

• Feed cavity-causing bacteria
• Increase tooth sensitivity

Sugar exposure combined with reduced brushing (more on that below) can quickly lead to discomfort. It can also increase your risk of developing tooth decay.

Skipping Normal Oral Care

Let’s be honest, when you’re sick, brushing and flossing often fall to the bottom of the priority list. While understandable, even a few days of poor oral hygiene can allow plaque and bacteria to build up.

This can result in:

• Gum irritation
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Bad breath
• Existing dental issues worsening

If your teeth hurt when you’re sick, reduced at-home care may be part of the problem. Try to brush your teeth twice a day, even when you’re not feeling well.

Dry Mouth From Mouth Breathing

Colds and flus often force you to breathe through your mouth, especially while sleeping. Mouth breathing reduces saliva, leading to dry mouth.

Saliva plays a critical role in:

• Neutralizing acids
• Washing away bacteria
• Protecting tooth enamel

Without enough saliva, teeth become more sensitive, and gums may feel sore or inflamed. Dry mouth can be a big contributor to all-over teeth pain with a cold.

Vomiting Can Damage Tooth Enamel

Flu and stomach viruses sometimes cause vomiting, which exposes teeth to strong stomach acids. These acids can weaken enamel and irritate gums, leading to pain or sensitivity.

After vomiting:

• Rinse your mouth with water
• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth
• Avoid acidic drinks

Brushing immediately can worsen tooth damage. Clean and care for your teeth gently after vomiting.

When Tooth Pain Means Something More

While illness-related tooth pain is usually temporary, pain that persists after you recover or that comes with swelling should not be ignored. You should visit the dentist immediately if you have:

• Sharp, localized pain in one tooth
• A bump on your gums
• Tooth or gum pain that comes with swelling or fever
• Facial swelling
• Dark tooth discoloration
• A foul taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath
• Extreme sensitivity to heat, cold, or sugary foods and drinks

Any of these symptoms may indicate an underlying dental issue like a cavity, infection, or gum disease.

How To Reduce Tooth Pain While You’re Sick

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or your gums hurt when you’re sick, take these steps to protect your oral health:

• Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth
• Choose sugar-free cough drops when possible
• Continue brushing (gently) twice every day
• Rinse your mouth after taking liquid medications
• Ask your doctor about safe methods for reducing swelling around the sinus cavities

If your dental discomfort doesn’t go away after you feel better, schedule an appointment at our office. You may have an untreated issue that is causing you pain.

Schedule a Dentist Appointment

If you have a cold or the flu and your teeth hurt, the issue may be sinus-related or due to other common effects of being sick. Proper at-home care can help you manage the discomfort and protect your dental health. However, if discomfort lingers after you’re well, it’s time to visit a dentist.

At Art of Modern Dentistry, we’re here to help you stay comfortable and protect your smile. If you have a dental problem, schedule an exam and teeth cleaning today. Early treatment helps prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems. Our team offers state-of-the-art dental services and personalized care, as well as same-day emergency appointments.