A toothache can be caused by a sinus infection or irritation (known as sinusitis). Sinusitis is a condition in which the tissue enclosing the sinuses becomes irritated and swollen.

Sinusitis is frequently accompanied by toothaches. Sinus pressure and sinus infection discharge can also cause it. The pain is typically felt in the upper back teeth nearest to the sinuses.

What Exactly Are Sinuses?

The sinuses are four pairs of air-filled cavities in the face bones between your eyes, on your forehead, and behind your cheekbones. 

• Sinuses moisturize, warm, and filter the air in your nasal cavity. 
• Mucus is produced by the sinuses, which drain into the nasal cavity and clean the nose.

Infection is possible when these air-filled spaces get clogged with liquids.

 

A sinus infection’s congestion and pressure might cause discomfort or pain in your upper teeth. This is since the roots of your top teeth and jawbone are close to your sinuses. This is known as referred pain when the ache travels to your lower teeth as well.

Sinus Toothaches Compared to Normal Toothaches

A lot of the symptoms of a typical toothache are the same as those of a sinus toothache. Sinus tooth pain, on the other hand, is predominantly felt in the upper molars, impacting numerous teeth rather than just one.

If you have pain in these teeth and some of the symptoms described below, your toothache is most likely caused by a sinus infection. You may also feel a little under the weather (tired) or have a temperature.

• A toothache caused by dental issues will almost certainly be the only source of pain, and it may be more acute and targeted. 
• Certain sorts of movement can aggravate the pain from a sinus toothache. Jumping or leaning over may aggravate the discomfort.

This is because sinus pressure fluctuates with movement and is experienced very much in your teeth. When you sit or lie down, the pain may go away.

Sinusitis frequently begins as a simple viral cold and progresses to a bacterial infection. Allergy symptoms, bacterial or fungal infestations, and fluctuations in temperature or air pressure are some of the other significant reasons.

Chemical allergens, asthma, and a weakened immune system all raise the risk of sinusitis. The indications of a sinus infection are frequently identical to those of cold or nasal allergies. You may get headaches, a runny or stuffy nose, or a cough. Inflammation and swelling can lead to nasal congestion and pressure, which can result in face discomfort.

Possible Treatment Options

If home cures fail to work, pharmaceutical medicine is a possibility. A decongestant, steroid nasal spray, or mucus reducing medication may be prescribed. Allergy-relief medicines may also be prescribed.

Antibiotics for sinusitis should be used only when all other treatment options have been exhausted and a bacterial infection is suspected. Before prescribing antibiotics, your doctor will most likely check to see if you’ve exhausted all other choices. Surgery may be required for structural concerns.