Have you ever had a toothache and wondered if it might have to do with your stuffy nose or sinus pressure? A lot of folks have a hard time telling the difference between dental problems and something that’s actually sinus-related.
Elegant Edge Dentistry sees patients all the time who think they’ve got a dental issue, but it’s actually sinus pressure causing a toothache. Here’s a guide on telling the difference so you can get the right treatment faster.
How Sinus Infections Can Cause Tooth Pain
Your maxillary sinuses sit right above your upper back teeth, and when they become inflamed or infected, they fill up with liquid and mucus, which puts pressure on the roots of your upper molars and premolars and makes your teeth hurt.
But your teeth aren’t the problem; it’s a toothache from a sinus infection. Your nerve endings just can’t tell the difference.
Symptoms of Sinus-Related Dental Pain
Here are some signs that can help you know that you’ve got dental pain from sinuses:
- Pain in more than one upper tooth at the same time
- The pain gets worse when you bend over or lie down
- Facial pressure around your cheeks, forehead, or eyes
- Nasal congestion or post-nasal drip
- A headache or ear pressure
- Bad breath, or you can’t smell as well as usual
If your tooth pain came on along with cold symptoms, then your sinuses are probably what’s causing your tooth pain. It’s usually a dull pain rather than a sharp one.
Symptoms of a True Toothache vs. Sinus Tooth Pain
But maybe it’s not sinus-related dental pain. Here are some ways to tell the difference:
True toothache symptoms:
- Pain focused on one specific tooth
- Your teeth are sensitive to heat, cold, or sweets
- You’ve got visible damage, like a chip or crack
- Swelling in your gum around one tooth
- Pain when you bite down
Sinus-related pain:
- You’ve got pain in several upper teeth at the same time
- The pain goes down when you treat your sinus symptoms
- It hurts more when you move or bend forward
- Congestion and facial pressure
When to See an Emergency Dentist or Physician
See a dentist if your tooth pain is severe, focused on one tooth, or if you’ve got swelling or a fever, since that might mean you’ve got an abscess or a dental emergency.
If you’re experiencing thick nasal discharge, pain in the face, or fever, and think it’s more likely to be a sinus infection, see a physician. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most sinus infections are viral.
If you’re not sure, our emergency dentistry Rochester Hills services can get you in on the same day to take a look and do X-rays to figure out what’s going on.
Treatment Options for Sinus-Related Toothaches
Once you’re sure it’s sinus pressure causing a toothache, treatment focuses on clearing the infection.
Medical treatment:
- Decongestants can reduce swelling
- Saline nasal rinses
- Steam inhalation
- Antibiotics if you’ve got a bacterial infection
- Pain relief like ibuprofen
Dental evaluation:
Even if it’s probably your sinuses, other issues can sometimes show up during the exam. Dr. Mansour at Elegant Edge Dentistry uses advanced diagnostic tools to check for cavities or infection.
The American Dental Association recommends a professional evaluation if your tooth pain doesn’t go away. If your teeth are healthy, focus on your sinus symptoms.
Tips to Prevent Dental Pain from Sinuses
Reduce your risk of dental pain from sinuses by caring for both your oral health and immune system.
Keep sinuses healthy:
- Stay hydrated
- Use a humidifier during dry months
- Manage allergies, if you’ve got them
- Stay away from cigarette smoke
Maintain dental health:
- Brush twice a day and floss regularly
- Come to Elegant Edge Industry for cleanings every six months
- If you’ve got dental problems, see a dentist ASAP
Knowing the Source of Your Pain Matters
Can a sinus infection cause toothaches? Absolutely. Knowing how to tell the difference helps you get the care you need, so you can feel better faster.
Dr. Mansour and our team at Elegant Edge Dentistry do thorough examinations and explain what’s going on. We’ve got evening appointments, and we go out of our way to make sure you’re comfortable.
Don’t wait to figure out what’s causing your tooth pain; contact us today for an evaluation. We’re accepting new patients.
FAQs
Can a sinus infection really cause toothaches?
Since the maxillary sinuses sit right on top of your upper back teeth, when they swell up or get inflamed, the pressure can push down on your roots and cause pain, usually in more than one tooth at once.
How can I tell if my tooth pain is from a sinus infection or a dental problem?
If it’s your sinuses, you’ll usually have pain in more than one tooth, and it’ll get worse when you bend forward. Plus, you’ll have nasal congestion and facial pressure. If it’s a dental issue, you’ll only have pain in one tooth, and it’ll get worse with cold or hot drinks or sweets. You might also be able to see the damage.
Should I see a dentist or a doctor for sinus-related tooth pain?
For nasal discharge, facial pain, and fever, see a physician. If the pain is sharp, affects just one tooth, or you’ve got dental swelling, see a dentist. A dental exam can rule out tooth problems.
How is dental pain from the sinuses treated?
Treatment means dealing with the sinus infection with decongestants, saline rinses, and inhaling steam, and you might need painkillers or prescription antibiotics. Once the infection clears up, the tooth pain should go away on its own.
Can sinus toothaches go away on their own?
Yes, once the sinus infection clears. Mild infections often resolve within a week with home care, but you should see a doctor if they persist, get worse, or you’ve got a high fever.
