This year, you have gotten serious about your overall health. You are working out consistently, eating healthy and practicing a proper dental care routine. So why do your teeth hurt after exercising? Is this something you should be worried about? Keep reading to find out what may be causing your dental pain after working out and when you should seek the help of an emergency dentist.
Possible Causes of Dental Pain After Exercising
There are many different reasons why your teeth and gums may be hurting after a workout. Here are 3 of the most common causes:
Bruxism – This condition is the unconscious habit of clenching or grinding your teeth due to stress or anxiety. Have you found yourself clenching your teeth when you’re trying to complete a set of reps or making it through that last minute on the treadmill? Vibrations can ripple through the nerves of clenched teeth and cause tenderness in your gums.
Gum Disease – When you exercise your blood flow increases which can make already swollen gums become tender and painful. If you have a dental infection, the increased blood flow can also cause inflammation at the root of your infected tooth, increasing sensitivity.
Dental Sensitivity – Due to worn down enamel, cracks or fractures in your tooth or dental infection can cause dental hypersensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you’re running outside in winter or your gym has a powerful air conditioning system, you may experience dental pain while you exercise.
How to Minimize Dental Pain After Exercising
If you’re looking for a quick fix until you are able to get in to see your dentist, clove oil, benzocaine products and desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain signals and provide some level of relief. Once you’re able to meet with your dentist and they find the issue is due to a crack or worn-down enamel, they may recommend a tooth-colored filling or dental crown to repair the damage. If you have a dental infection or a tooth that has decay or other damage below the gum line, you may need a root canal or a tooth extraction.
It’s not uncommon for people who cycle, run or participate in other active exercises to experience tooth and gum sensitivity after a workout. If you experience oral pain after physical activity, it is definitely time to schedule a visit with your dentist.
About the Author
At Studio Dental of Chisholm Trail, Dr. Anil Patel is committed to providing every patent with top-quality, personalized dental care. He achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in Los Angeles and continues to expand his clinical knowledge by participating in advanced training in cosmetic dentistry and dental implantology. If you need help to protect your smile and minimize dental pain, contact the office at (817) 717-6788 or visit the website to schedule your appointment today.