How the common cold impacts your oral health

read Adult Oral Health
Woman taking care of a sick man.

*Updated October 2024

The changing of seasons from one to the next often brings with it a “sick” season, which means there may be a domino effect of illnesses like the common cold passing between you and your loved ones. Most of the time, sniffles, sneezes, sore throats, and runny noses are the main symptoms to look out for during this time.

However, there may be another common cold side effect plaguing you that you might not expect: tooth pain.

Reasons your teeth hurt during the common cold

Many people don’t think about tooth pain as a symptom of the common cold. But, if you consider your anatomy and where many bothersome symptoms of the illness occur, it makes sense that your teeth may be impacted.

The reason for discomfort starts with your sinuses. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Your sinuses are four paired cavities (spaces) in your head. Narrow passages connect them. Sinuses make mucus that drains out of the passages in your nose.”

It’s important to note that sinuses are located near the center of your face, including in the forehead, cheeks, and nose. The sinuses in the cheeks and nose are close to the upper part of your jaw.

Most of the time, your sinuses are clear and not inflamed. However, when you have a common cold or other illness, the cavities may fill up with excess mucus and fluid. This buildup can cause a feeling of stuffiness, pressure, and pain in your face, nose, and even your teeth, particularly the upper molars.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain in addition to other symptoms, it might be due to a common cold or other illness. However, if the pain lasts for more than 10 days or becomes unbearable, it’s important to talk with a dental professional in case there’s an underlying reason for the discomfort.

Tips to relieve tooth pain caused by the common cold

When you’re not feeling well, the last thing you want to deal with is tooth pain. The good news is there are remedies you can do at home that may help alleviate some of the discomfort that comes with sinus pressure.

Here are some suggestions from the Mayo Clinic:

  • Warm compresses, steam, and humidity can help get mucus moving out of your sinuses and can reduce pain. Breathing over a bowl of boiling water can help with this too.
  • Using saline to wash out your sinuses not only helps rinse away mucus, but it also provides moisture directly to the inflamed area.
  • Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.

If your tooth pain continues after your common cold is gone, you may have an oral health problem that needs to be treated by a dental professional.

Click here to find a dentist near you!

What to eat after wisdom teeth removal

read Adult Oral Health
Learn what to eat (and avoid) after wisdom teeth removal, and see a timeline for your recovery.

Not everyone has an extra set of molars in their mouth, but most people have wisdom teeth that pop up in their late teens or during early adulthood. In some cases, wisdom teeth don’t cause problems and can remain in the mouth untouched. However, dentists typically recommend having them removed, especially if they’re growing in incorrectly, causing pain, or are showing signs of other oral health problems such as tooth decay or gum disease.

Continue reading →

What is open enrollment?

read Insurance Resources and Dental Benefits
Open enrollment announcement.

*Updated October 2025

Key takeaways about open enrollment

  • Open enrollment usually runs November 15 to January 1, but dates may vary by employer.
  • Preparing ahead can make open enrollment a simple, stress-free process.
  • Dental insurance supports both oral and overall health by making care more accessible and affordable.
  • Use this time to review your needs and select the plan that fits your health and budget.

Open enrollment can feel overwhelming, whether it’s your first or thirtieth time going through it. But with a clear understanding of the process and some research into plans and coverage, it can become a simple, stress-free experience completed in just a few clicks.

Understanding open enrollment

Open enrollment is the period near the end of each year when companies allow employees to enroll in or change health benefits. It’s also the time for individuals to sign up for health insurance plans or adjust existing coverage outside of the workplace.

As you move through open enrollment, it’s important to think about your health needs and consider how coverage can support your overall well-being. Oral health, for example, is closely tied to whole-body health.

Dental insurance makes care more accessible and affordable, ensuring you get the treatment you need. Take advantage of open enrollment to choose the plan that best fits your health and budget for the year ahead.

Choosing the right dental insurance plan

When selecting a dental insurance plan, it’s important to explore your options in advance. Open enrollment is the best time to evaluate your coverage and make sure it aligns with your health goals.

Tips to prepare:

  • Review your current coverage. Does it still meet your oral health needs?
  • Consider upcoming care. Will you need new treatments, surgeries, or medications? Factor these into your decision.
  • Compare plan options. Look at costs, coverage, and provider networks.
  • Understand costs. Pay attention to premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket costs to get the full picture.
  • Ask questions. If you’re unsure about what’s covered, reach out to your insurance provider.
    • If you have an employer-provided plan, your company may offer a meeting or digital presentation that outlines options and benefits before enrollment.
    • If you purchase an individual plan, reach out to your insurance provider’s customer service team for guidance on what plan may be the best fit.

Navigating the enrollment process

Once you’ve identified the right plan, check your enrollment dates and mark your calendar so you don’t miss them.

Nationwide, open enrollment generally runs November 15 to January 1, though dates may vary by employer. Watch for emails or notifications from your HR team to confirm your enrollment window, and reach out if you’re unsure.

Note: Outside of open enrollment, changes to health insurance are typically restricted to qualifying life events, such as getting married, having a child, or losing other coverage.

Open enrollment puts you in control of your health care

Once you’ve reviewed your options, selected a plan, and confirmed your enrollment dates, you’re ready for the final step: to enroll in your dental insurance plan.

Follow your employer’s instructions to complete the process, or if you have an individual plan, visit your insurance provider’s website and search “open enrollment” to get started.