Often, those who have a sinus infection may also develop a “toothache.” But is this really a toothache? As in one you need to see a dentist about? Or is it just a side effect of a sinus infection? In this blog, we’ll explore whether the two are connected and how to tell the difference between a toothache that needs dental care and pain in the area that is unrelated to your dental health.
Are sinus infections and toothaches related?
Sinus infections create lots of pressure and pain in several areas of the face. The sides of the nose, the temples, and, yes, even pressure and pain surrounding your teeth and gums. However, the bottom line is, what you’re experiencing during a toothache is usually not an actual toothache. A real toothache that needs dental attention is usually due to infection. Bacteria enter the teeth through a cavity or crack in the tooth or through old dental work. Sinus infections will not directly affect your teeth or be the cause of a tooth infection.
How to tell the difference between a toothache and pain from a sinus infection?
It certainly is possible that you could happen to get an actual toothache while you also have a sinus infection. So how can you tell the difference between tooth pain from a sinus infection and tooth pain that could mean infection and needs to be looked at by a dentist? A toothache is usually localized pain felt in a single tooth. Usually, you will not be able to chew on the side of the toothache. Once it progresses, you may feel constant, unrelenting pain. The nerves of the teeth are very sensitive. If an infection or abscess is present in any, the pain is sharp.
On the other hand, pain due to sinus pressure is often generalized to all the teeth on the side where you’re feeling pain. You may have some trouble eating, but the pain will not be as sharp; instead, it’s more of a dull aching pain throughout the jaw and teeth on that side.
If you’re unsure if your pain is from your teeth or just due to sinus pressure, a dentist can always take a look. X-rays can detect any infection present.
