ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility

A
A

A
Request your appointment Schedule Online Call our office today(206)284-4505


Home Blog Tooth Pain and Running - What You Need to Know

Tooth Pain and Running - What You Need to Know


Posted on 7/15/2024 by Dr. Jae Seon Kim
A person holding their jaw in painThere's nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment after a good run. But when a sharp pain in your tooth strikes during or after your workout, it can quickly turn your post-run high into a low.

As an expert general dentist, I see many patients who experience tooth pain while running. While the pain itself may be temporary, it's important to understand the potential causes and how to manage them.

Possible Causes of Tooth Pain While Running


There are several reasons why you might experience tooth pain while running:
•  Dental problems: Existing dental problems like cavities, cracked teeth, or loose fillings can be aggravated by the impact and vibration of running.
•  Sinus congestion: Running in cold weather or with allergies can cause sinus congestion, which can put pressure on the teeth and lead to pain.
•  Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: These disorders affect the jaw joint and muscles, and the pain can radiate to the teeth.
•  Bruxism (teeth grinding): Some people grind their teeth more when they're under stress, which can be exacerbated by running.


How to Manage Tooth Pain While Running


If you experience tooth pain while running, there are a few things you can do:
•  Stop running and rest: Give your teeth a break and see if the pain subsides.
•  Rinse your mouth with water: This can help remove any debris that might be irritating your teeth.
•  Take an over-the-counter pain reliever: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
•  Apply a cold compress to the affected area: This can help reduce swelling.


When to See a Dentist


If your tooth pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, bleeding, or fever, it's important to see a dentist right away.

Your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth, take X-rays if needed, and determine the cause of your pain. Depending on the diagnosis, they may recommend treatment options like fillings, crowns, root canals, or TMJ therapy.

Preventing Tooth Pain While Running


There are a few things you can do to prevent tooth pain while running:
•  Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities.
•  See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings: This can help identify and address any potential problems before they become painful.
•  Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, wearing a mouthguard while running can help protect your teeth from damage.
•  Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to prevent sinus congestion.
•  Warm up before your run: This can help to loosen your jaw muscles and reduce the risk of TMJ pain.


Restoration Dentistry and Tooth Pain


If you're experiencing tooth pain while running due to existing dental problems, restorative dentistry can help. Restorative procedures like fillings, crowns, and bridges can repair damaged teeth and restore function and comfort.

By taking care of your oral health and addressing any underlying dental problems, you can enjoy your runs pain-free and keep your smile looking and feeling its best.

Copyright © 2018-2025 Pacific Modern Dentistry and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
Pacific Modern Dentistry, 2046 Westlake Ave. N., Suite 204 Seattle, WA 98109 + (206)284-4505 + pacificmoderndentistry.com + 2/10/2025 + Tags: dental implants Seattle WA +