Flu season is right around the corner, set to begin on October 1st. As kids head back to school, the rise in respiratory viruses such as RSV, the flu, and Covid-19 is inevitable. Amid the common symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue, there’s an unusual one that can catch parents by surprise – tooth pain.
Why Does Tooth Pain Occur with the Flu?
It might seem perplexing that the flu, primarily a respiratory illness, could lead to tooth pain. However, there’s a connection. Tooth pain during flu-like symptoms often arises due to sinus congestion and pressure. When the nasal passages become blocked, the pressure can extend to the surrounding areas, including the teeth and gums. This can cause discomfort and pain, leaving children feeling more miserable than usual during their illness.
Relief For The Flu & Teeth Pain at Home
Parents can help ease their child’s tooth pain caused by the flu with a few simple home remedies.
1. Drink Lots of Fluids:
- Make sure your child drinks plenty of water and other fluids.
- This can help make their nose feel better and less stuffy.
2. Use Saline Nasal Sprays or Gargle with Saltwater:
- You can use a special spray that has salt water in it for their nose.
- Or they can gargle with warm salt water (like when you make salty soup).
3. Use Medicine or Cold Compresses for Pain (But Ask a Doctor First):
If their teeth hurt a lot, you can give them pain medicine, but before you give them any, talk to a doctor. If pain medicine is not the route you wish to take, applying a cold compress wrapped in a towel could help. Press this up against your child’s cheek, where the pain is occurring, and have them hold it for up to 15 minutes at a time.
Remember, it’s essential to talk to a doctor before you give your child any medicine. They can tell you the right thing to do to help your child feel better.
Flu Season and Dental Health: When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist
While tooth pain during the flu is usually temporary and resolves as the illness does, there are situations where a visit to the dentist is necessary. If the tooth pain persists even after the flu symptoms have subsided, it could be a sign of an underlying issue like tooth decay, sore throat, or a persistent sinus infection which are also common during cold and flu season.
Additionally, if your child experiences severe pain, sinus pressure, swelling, or fever, it’s crucial to seek professional dental care promptly. A pediatric dentist, like Rio Dental & Orthodontics, can conduct a thorough examination to ensure there are no complications that need immediate attention.
Schedule Your Child’s Check-Up
As the school year begins, it’s a perfect time to ensure your child has a healthy smile. Schedule your child’s next dental check-up with Rio Dental & Orthodontics. Our experienced team specializes in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, providing comprehensive care for your child’s oral health. A regular dental check-up can help identify any potential issues early on and maintain a vibrant smile throughout the year.
Flu season and dental health might not seem connected, but the discomfort of tooth pain during flu-like symptoms is a reminder of how interconnected our bodies are. By understanding why this phenomenon occurs and how to provide relief, parents can ensure their child’s comfort during illness. Remember, if tooth pain persists or becomes severe, consulting a pediatric dentist is essential. To kick off the school year with healthy smiles, schedule a dental check-up with Rio Dental & Orthodontics. Your child’s oral health is our priority.
