Having a sore throat is bad enough, but why do your teeth and gums ache when you’re ill?
Many people experience dental discomfort during a cold, and it’s often connected to sinus pressure or temporary inflammation.
In this article, we’ll break down why this happens, when it’s serious and simple ways to ease the pain.
Why Can a Cold Cause Tooth and Gum Pain?
Your upper teeth sit very closely to your maxillary sinuses.
When you catch a cold, these sinuses can become inflamed or congested, causing pressure that radiates down into your teeth and gums.
This is why many people experience toothache or discomfort during a cold, even when there’s no dental problem.
Signs The Pain is Sinus-Related
You may be experiencing sinus-related tooth pain if you notice:
- Pain in multiple teeth rather than just one
- Pressure that worsens when bending forward
- Nasal congestion or facial pressure
These symptoms often indicate that the discomfort is caused by sinus inflammation rather than a dental problem.
Read our article on toothache here.
A Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) and Dental Pain
If your cold lingers or worsens, it can turn into a sinus infection (sinusitis). This can cause symptoms that mimic dental issues, including:
- Throbbing tooth pain
- Tender gums
- Facial swelling
- Pain on side of the mouth
Because sinus infections can closely resemble dental pain, it can be difficult to tell whether the source is your teeth or your sinuses.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity During a Cold
Colds can make your body more sensitive overall, and your teeth are no exception.
Dehydration, mouth breathing and acidic medications can wear down enamel and expose sensitive areas of your teeth, leading to discomfort.
Read our article here, on tooth sensitivity.
Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Cold symptoms like nasal congestion, headaches or poor sleep can trigger night time teeth grinding or jaw clenching causing tooth and gum pain when you wake up.
How to Tell if the Pain is From a Cold or a Dental Problem?
| Cold-Related Pain | Dental Pain |
| Affects several teeth | Usually, one tooth |
| Comes with congestion | No nasal symptoms |
| Improves as cold improves | Gets worse over time |
| Pressure-like sensation | Sharp or constant pain |
This comparison can help you determine whether your discomfort is temporary and sinus-related, or if it requires professional dental attention.
Why Do Gums Bleed During a Cold?
You may notice bleeding gums when you have a cold due to inflammation and dryness.
When your immune system is busy fighting illness, your gums can become more sensitive to bacteria making them easier to irritate.
Nasal congestion often leads to mouth breathing which dries out the gums and increases the risk of bleeding.
Occasional mild bleeding is usually temporary, but if it continues after your cold has cleared it may be a sign of underlying gum disease and should be checked by a dentist.
How to Relive Tooth and Gum Pain During a Cold
Tooth and gum pain during a cold can be uncomfortable, but the good news is that it’s often temporary and can usually be managed with simple at-home care while your body recovers.
1. Reduce Sinus Congestion
Reliving sinus pressure can help ease tooth pain. Use a saline nasal spray, try steam inhalation, or apply a warm compress to your face to help decongest your sinuses.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and prevents dry mouth, which can worsen gum irritation and sensitivity.
3. Use a Sensitive Toothpaste
Switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help protect exposed or irritated areas while you’re unwell.
4. Maintain Gentle Oral Hygiene
Brush twice daily with a soft-thistle toothbrush, floss gently and avoid aggressive brushing to prevent further gum irritation.
These simple steps can help ease discomfort while you’re unwell and support your oral health as your cold clears.
When to See a Dentist or Doctor?
You should seek professional care if:
- The tooth pain lasts more than a few days after your cold
- Severe or localised pain affecting a specific tooth
- There is swelling, pus or fever
- Pain occurs only in one tooth
These signs indicate a dental infection or other underlying oral issue, rather than a temporary cold-related discomfort, and should be evaluated by a dentist or doctor promptly.
Conclusion
Recurrent tooth or gum pain during a cold is usually temporary, but persistent or severe discomfort could signal a dental issue that requires professional attention.
For expert guidance and personalised care, Cheslyn Hay Dental offers comprehensive dental services, from routine check-ups to advanced treatments like teeth whitening, designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy year-round.
Book a consultation with our friendly team today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sinus-related tooth pain usually last?
Typically, it resolves within a week as your cold or sinus symptoms improve. Persistent pain beyond this period should be evaluated by a dentist.
Will my teeth and gums return to normal after a cold?
Most sinus-related tooth and gum pain is temporary and resolves once your cold or sinus symptoms improve.
Persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a dentist.
Can a cold effect wisdom teeth?
Upper wisdom teeth may feel pressure or mild discomfort during a cold due to a sinus congestion, even if there is no dental issue with the teeth themselves.
