In today’s world, there are many reasons why people put off going for a jog. They don’t have time, they don’t have the right clothes or shoes, or they don’t want to become sore. One slightly lesser-known reason is… tooth pain? That’s right, some people experience dental discomfort whenever they work out. Why is that? Keep reading below as a dentist in Richmond examines four possible reasons why your teeth might hurt when you exercise.
Sensitivity to Cold
Your teeth are protected by an outer layer called enamel, which is what gives teeth their white sheen. Below the enamel is a yellower, softer layer called dentin, which contains microscopic tubules that lead to the center of the tooth where the nerve lies. If your enamel has thinned over the years, whether it’s due to the aging process or bad oral habits, more of your dentin is exposed. Thus, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, including chilly air.
If you’re jogging while it’s cold outside, try breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. This way, your tongue, lips, and cheeks will insulate your teeth. If this works, you may want to talk to your dentist about other ways you can reduce your sensitivity.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition where you unconsciously clench your jaw or grind your teeth. Many bruxism sufferers do this when they’re stressed out or working hard. You might clench or grind when you’re running up a hill or nearing the end of your jog. When you’re running, each step can send vibrations through your body, and if your teeth are clenched together, it can result in pain.
During your next workout, focus on relaxing your facial muscles and keeping your teeth apart. Ideally, when you exercise, you should be so loose that your cheeks jiggle.
Sinus Problems
In some cases, mouth pain actually has nothing to do with your teeth at all. Occasionally, a sinus infection could be causing this discomfort. Your sinuses sit right behind the roots of your top teeth. a problem in your sinuses could then feel like a toothache. Have your doctor evaluate your sinuses and get any inflammation or infection promptly treated.
Gum Disease
Sometimes, sensitive teeth may point toward a larger issue, such as gum disease. Walking or running increases blood flow in your mouth, exacerbating any inflammation and making your teeth hurt. If your gums feel tender and/or bleed when you brush or floss, see your dentist right away.
It’s normal to feel uncomfortable during or after working out, but not in your mouth. If you experience oral pain while exercising (or at any other time), schedule an appointment with your dentist in Richmond as soon as you can.
About the Practice
At Brown, Reynolds, Snow, LeNoir Dentistry, we offer a wide range of dental services under one roof, thanks to our team of five dentists. Each of them brings their own unique set of knowledge and skills to the table. We offer personalized treatment to patients of all ages at both of our Richmond, VA locations. We can treat the cause of your exercise-induced tooth pain, no matter what it is. To learn more, visit our website.