While COVID-19 is primarily recognized for its respiratory effects, many individuals report experiencing tooth pain during or after infection. This discomfort is typically an indirect consequence of the virus, rather than a direct attack on the teeth. The SARS-CoV-2 virus can influence various bodily systems, affecting oral health through several pathways.
Understanding the Connection
Tooth pain in individuals with COVID-19 is often an indirect result of the body’s response to the viral infection. The virus can trigger widespread inflammation and stress, which then manifests as oral discomfort. While direct viral damage to teeth is not commonly reported, physiological changes during illness can impact oral tissues and structures. This can exacerbate existing dental issues or lead to new oral symptoms.
ACE2 receptors, which SARS-CoV-2 uses to enter cells, are abundant in the mouth, tongue, and salivary glands, suggesting the oral cavity can be an initial site of infection. This viral presence and the body’s immune response contribute to conditions that may lead to dental discomfort. While the virus may not directly target tooth structure, its systemic effects can create conditions favorable for oral pain.
Common Indirect Causes
Sinus congestion and pressure are common symptoms of respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Inflamed sinuses, located above the upper teeth, can exert pressure on their roots. This often leads to referred pain, felt as a toothache. Such pain can be particularly noticeable in the upper molars and premolars.
Bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding, is another indirect cause of tooth pain during or after COVID-19. Stress, anxiety, fever, and altered sleep patterns associated with illness can increase unconscious clenching or grinding. This habit can lead to jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and muscle fatigue. Studies have shown an increase in bruxism and related symptoms since the pandemic’s onset.
Systemic inflammation from the viral infection can also contribute to dental pain. The body’s immune response to SARS-CoV-2 can exacerbate pre-existing dental issues like gum disease or cause general sensitivity in the teeth and gums. Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, can manifest as redness, swelling, and bleeding, contributing to oral discomfort. This heightened inflammatory state can make teeth feel more sensitive to temperature or pressure.
Dry mouth is a common symptom of many viral infections, including COVID-19. This condition can be worsened by fever, dehydration, or certain medications. Reduced saliva flow impairs the mouth’s natural cleansing mechanisms, potentially leading to increased tooth sensitivity, discomfort, and a higher risk of cavities. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles, so its reduction can negatively impact oral health.
When to Seek Dental Care
If experiencing tooth pain during or after a COVID-19 infection, self-care measures can help manage discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce pain and inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek can alleviate jaw pain and swelling. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important. Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater can also reduce inflammation and cleanse the gums.
It is important to recognize warning signs that indicate a need for professional dental evaluation. Severe, persistent pain that does not subside with home remedies warrants attention. Swelling in the face or gums, fever related to the tooth or gum area, or visible signs of infection such as pus indicate an emergency. Pain that continues even after other COVID-19 symptoms improve suggests an underlying dental issue.
A professional dental check-up is important because underlying dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease, could be present or exacerbated by illness. Dentists can accurately diagnose the pain’s cause, differentiating between indirect COVID-19 effects and pre-existing or new dental conditions. Ignoring dental pain can lead to more serious complications, making timely assessment and treatment crucial for oral health.