Teeth hurting when running may be from sinus pressure, teeth grinding, or sensitivity to cold air. See a dentist.
Common causes
- Sinus pressure.
- Teeth grinding or clenching during exercise.
- Cold air sensitivity.
- Cavities or gum recession.
- Jaw clenching.
What helps
- Breathe through the nose.
- Wear a mouthguard.
- Use sensitive toothpaste.
See a dentist
If pain persists.
Rare cause
Heart pain can refer to the jaw and teeth. See a doctor if it comes with chest discomfort.
Why teeth ache when running
Tooth pain during running can come from sinus pressure, clenching or grinding, tooth sensitivity to cold air breathed through the mouth, or an underlying cavity or crack. Upper back teeth share nerves with the maxillary sinus, so sinus inflammation can feel like a toothache.
- Exercise raises heart rate and blood flow, which can increase pain from inflamed tooth pulp.
- Jarring from each step can aggravate a cracked tooth or a loose filling.
- Barodontalgia is tooth pain caused by pressure changes, as in diving or flying.
What to do
Breathe through the nose in cold air, wear a mouthguard if you clench, and treat sinus congestion. See a dentist for pain that persists, since dentists can do X-rays and pulp tests. Rarely, tooth or jaw pain during exertion can be referred pain from angina and the heart. Pain with chest tightness, shortness of breath or sweating needs emergency care.
Why teeth ache when running
Tooth pain during running may be due to sinus pressure, clenching the jaw, cold air hitting sensitive teeth, or cavities and cracked teeth sensitive to jarring. Dehydration and dry mouth also play a role. Some pain relates to the heart (referred jaw pain) and needs attention.
What to do
See a dentist to check for decay or cracks. Breathe through the nose in cold weather, relax your jaw and consider a mouthguard. Stop exercising and seek emergency care if tooth or jaw pain comes with chest pressure, shortness of breath or sweating.
Running mechanics and teeth
Jaw clenching during hard exercise increases pressure on teeth and TMJ. Studies show athletes have higher rates of tooth erosion from sports drinks and dehydration. Sinus pressure referred to upper molars can ache with head jarring. Cold air triggers hypersensitive teeth.
Dental prevention
Rinse with water after sports drinks and wait 30 minutes before brushing. Use a custom mouthguard if clenching. Treat cavities and cracked teeth. See a doctor if exercise provokes jaw or tooth pain that goes away with rest, since angina can present as jaw pain; the American Heart Association lists jaw pain as a possible heart attack symptom, especially in women.
Based on data from the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association
