Many individuals have reported experiencing tooth pain during or after a COVID-19 infection, an unexpected symptom. This discomfort ranges from general sensitivity to a sharper, more localized ache in the teeth or jaw. While seemingly unrelated, physiological responses triggered by the virus or the body’s reaction can manifest as dental discomfort. Understanding these connections clarifies why this symptom occurs.
Systemic Inflammation and Nerve Effects
The body’s immune response to a viral infection like COVID-19 involves widespread inflammation. When the immune system detects the virus, it releases signaling molecules like cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. These substances circulate throughout the body, combating the infection.
This systemic inflammation can affect various tissues, including the nerves that supply sensation to the teeth and gums. These inflammatory chemicals near nerve endings can lower their pain threshold, making teeth more sensitive to pressure, temperature changes, or general contact. This heightened sensitivity presents as a generalized aching or throbbing sensation across multiple teeth, rather than a specific dental issue.
Sinus Pressure and Referred Pain
COVID-19 commonly leads to inflammation and congestion within the paranasal sinuses, particularly the maxillary sinuses located above the upper jaw. These air-filled cavities are close to the roots of the upper back teeth. When the sinus linings become inflamed and swollen, pressure builds within these confined spaces.
This increased pressure can directly compress the nerve endings of the roots of the upper teeth, leading to a sensation of pain. The discomfort is not a tooth problem, but referred pain, where the brain interprets pain from the inflamed sinus as coming from nearby teeth. Patients often describe this as a dull ache or pressure that worsens when bending over or lying down.
Jaw Clenching and Stress Responses
The physical and psychological toll of illness, including a COVID-19 infection, contributes to unconscious habits like jaw clenching or teeth grinding. This can occur both during waking hours and, more commonly, during sleep. The sustained force exerted on the teeth and jaw muscles can lead to soreness and discomfort.
Repeated clenching can strain the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and the muscles surrounding the jaw, resulting in headaches, earaches, and generalized tooth sensitivity. Illness often leads to dehydration or dry mouth, reducing saliva’s protective effects. Insufficient saliva can make teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and discomfort, exacerbating clenching’s effects.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
While tooth pain during or after COVID-19 can often be linked to the systemic effects of the illness, professional dental evaluation is warranted in certain cases. If the pain is severe, localized to a single tooth, or accompanied by swelling in the gums or face, it may indicate an underlying dental issue such as an infection or cavity. Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures also suggests a potential dental problem unrelated to the viral illness.
If the discomfort persists for more than a few days after recovering from COVID-19, or if it significantly interferes with eating or speaking, a dental visit is advisable. At home, over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. Applying a warm compress to the jaw or practicing gentle jaw relaxation exercises can also alleviate muscle soreness from clenching.