Having a sinus infection is not a very pleasant experience. You might wonder can a sinus infection causes tooth pain. The answer to that is yes, sinus tooth pain is possible. Toothaches are a common symptom of sinus infections.
Sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull that run just behind the face. When the cavities swell up or get inflamed, the mucus membrane starts to trap dust particles. This can irritate the sinuses which may show up as various symptoms. Ear and toothache from sinus pressure are common symptoms of a sinus infection.
Difference between Tooth pain and Sinus pain
Tooth pain during sinusitis comes from all the pressure that builds up in the sinuses when they get inflamed. But one may often confuse tooth pain and sinus pain. Our brains cannot distinguish between the two. Here are some symptoms to differentiate between sinus infections and tooth pain.
Some symptoms that accompany tooth-ache during sinus infection are:
- Nasal congestion: A blocked or runny nose is a common symptom of sinusitis.
- Sore throat and cough: Discharge down your throat along with frequent coughing fits helps to identify a sinus infection.
- Fever: A higher body temperature is the body’s natural defense mechanism. Fever is a common symptom of sinus infection.
- Heaviness behind the cheekbones and headaches: As the sinuses get inflamed, your head and cheekbones might feel heavy. A headache will let you know that it is probably a sinus infection.
- Earache and tooth pain: Sinus infection causes tooth pain and is often accompanied by pain in the ears.
The typical symptoms of a tooth abscess that is not due to sinus infection are listed below:
- Pain and swelling: If you have a tooth abscess or cavities, your tooth and gums may ache and swell up.
- Redness in the gums: Sinus infection causes tooth pain and generally doesn’t come with redness in the gums. If your gums bleed or become red there is a high possibility that it is not a case of sinusitis.
- Bad taste in the mouth: A pungent taste in your mouth indicates that your teeth are the problem, not your sinuses.
- Fever: This is a common symptom of both sinus pains and toothache. But if the fever is accompanied by the above-mentioned symptoms it means it is a case of tooth abscess.
Sinus-related toothaches typically generate pain on both sides of the face. Severe tooth pain from sinus infection should be treated immediately.
How to Relieve Sinus Tooth pain?
Sinus infection causes tooth pain and can be very painful. The tips dentists generally suggest for sinus tooth pain relief are:
- Pain coincidence: If your toothache is due to a sinus infection, try to treat your sinuses. Inhale steam and clear out your sinuses to get relief from toothache caused by sinus pains.
- Hydrate yourself: A higher water concentration in the body helps to fight sinus congestion and tooth pain. Drink lots of fluids and broth to stay hydrated.
- A good sleep: Ample rest can battle any ailment. When your nasal cavity gets clogged generating toothache, lie down with your head positioned at a higher level than your body. Try sleeping to cure your sinus infection.
- Easy home remedies for sinus pain: You don’t have to go to a doctor unless it is a case of an acute sinus infection. You can try home remedies like essential oils, steam baths, OTC decongestants, and gargling with saltwater.
But you must consult a doctor if your tooth pain from the sinus lasts longer than two weeks.
Whom to Consult: Doctor or Dentist?
Sinus infection causes tooth pain, but often one gets confused if he/she should consult a doctor or a dentist for such pains. It completely depends on your instincts. If you feel that your toothache is due to sinusitis, consult your doctor for confirmation. He/she will prescribe medicines to alleviate sinus pressure. If you still don’t get relief from sinus infection tooth pain, try consulting a dentist. People who suffer from both sinusitis and dental issues must follow a healthy lifestyle. If you are one such person, you should schedule regular check-ups with both your sinus doctor and dentist. Follow the motto of eating healthy and staying healthy to avoid sinus and tooth pain.
