Teeth hurt when sick?
Sickness caused by the cold or flu can lead to aching sensations throughout the body, including the teeth. Painful teeth often stem from sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses – a common condition associated with illness. The maxillary sinuses rest directly atop both sets of upper molars within the oral cavity. The teeth’s nervous system is highly sensitive to all forms of discomfort and stress. In cases where the sinuses are congested and cause pressure, or when the sinus lining becomes inflamed, individuals may experience pain or discomfort in their upper molars on one or both sides of the mouth. There is a possibility that the pain you are experiencing may intensify upon sneezing or coughing.
Individuals experiencing tooth pain during the course of a cold, flu, or sinus infection may misconstrue that a cavity is the underlying cause for their discomfort or that they are developing a tooth abscess. It is important to note that while sinus pressure and inflammation can indeed lead to pain in the teeth, the resulting discomfort from an infected tooth root is quite different.
Infected tooth pain vs Common cold teeth pain
Discomfort emanating from an infected tooth is characterized by a persistent throbbing and pulsing sensation that tends to retain its intensity. Identification of the area causing the pain within the mouth is straightforward. This type of pain usually targets a specific tooth, accompanied by inflammation and redness in the surrounding area.
The sensation of discomfort in one’s teeth due to sinus pressure and subsequent inflammation is typically felt throughout the set of molars located beneath the affected sinus. This particular type of pain is characterized as being a dull ache, rather than a throbbing or pulsating sensation. Typically, an individual experiencing this kind of pain can consume food and liquids without enduring further distress. Furthermore, the intensity of this particular toothache varies. As the blockage in the sinuses decreases, the pain in the tooth also diminishes.
When a person’s sinuses are infected, preventing tooth pain can prove to be a challenging task. The most effective remedy is to consume an ample amount of fluids to facilitate the clearance of congestion. In addition, taking pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can alleviate the discomfort caused by sinus pain and its associated tooth pain.
In the event of sinus infection, a medical practitioner is capable of prescribing antibiotics that are effective in alleviating teeth pain that may be experienced as a result.
It is advisable to seek professional consultation from your dentist if pain persists, as it may indicate the presence of a cavity.
Is the flu contagious?
Numerous professionals in the dental industry have encountered a significant number of patients who experience doubts regarding their scheduled appointments when feeling unwell. This is primarily due to the uncertainty surrounding the progression of their condition. It is customary for the majority of offices to impose a late fee on patients who fail to cancel their scheduled appointments within 48 hours of the designated time. Given this scenario, healthcare practitioners may find themselves in a dilemma of whether to proceed with the appointment or cancel it altogether.
When it comes to determining one’s degree of contagion, it may not always be readily discernible. Additionally, distinguishing between a common cold and the flu can be challenging in the early stages of symptom onset. Utilizing a thermometer to monitor your body temperature is recommended for optimal care. If there is a persistent increase in temperature, it is probable that you are experiencing the flu.
The Center for Disease Control has outlined that typical flu symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, and headaches. However, it is noted that not all individuals with the flu will experience a fever. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, has the potential to inflict a range of health problems varying from mild to severe, even resulting in fatality. It is distinguishable from a cold due to its sudden onset.
Is it advisable to visit the dentist while experiencing illness?
In the event of a patient manifesting flu-like symptoms, we strongly advise that they postpone their appointment. Influenza or the flu is highly contagious and can spread through tiny particles released into the air when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. It’s imperative to exercise precautions to avoid further transmission of the virus. The act of sneezing possesses the potential to spread infection amongst a multitude of individuals. Apart from transmitting the virus to other patients, dental personnel are also susceptible to contracting the infection due to their direct interaction with oral fluids. Thus, if an individual is infected, their dental staff may also be at risk of contracting the virus. While health professionals may take precautions to safeguard against infectious diseases such as frequent hand-washing and protective attire like gloves, masks, and eyewear, these measures may not provide complete protection.
It is recommended to contact the dental office in order to notify them of any need for rescheduling. Certain offices may empathize with your concern for their well-being and that of other patients, leading them to waive any fees associated with infrequent cancellations. If uncertain whether or not to cancel an upcoming visit, it is advisable to inquire with the dental office directly.