Allergies can be triggered at any time of the year. In turn, sinuses can be affected, causing discomfort in many different areas. Sinus pressure or a sinus infection can have various symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, pressure in the eyes, discomfort around the cheeks, and tooth pain. But as your dentist in Grove City knows, any type of tooth pain can cause concern. So let’s examine the different ways you can differentiate between a toothache caused by sinuses versus a toothache caused by a dental problem.

Why Can Sinuses Cause a Toothache?

Sinusitis, which is more commonly known as sinus inflammation or a sinus infection, can be a result of many different things. Anything from an upper respiratory infection to a cold or the flu can cause sinus inflammation. Usually, whenever there is inflammation, there is pain. The same goes for sinuses. When there is inflammation in the sinuses, everything close by can feel the effects, including the teeth. You see, the sinus cavity isn’t only in the nose, as often thought, but it’s also located in the forehead, behind the eyes, and in the tooth roots of the upper back molars. Therefore, the swelling and inflammation of the sinuses can cause pain in any of those areas.

The Difference Between Sinus Pain & Toothaches

Knowing the difference between sinus pain in the teeth and an actual toothache can be hard, and if you’re in doubt, you should contact your dentist in Grove City immediately. But, you can also use this guide to help you differentiate between the two. 

Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Earache or headache
• Pain when moving your head up or down

Toothache Symptoms

• Pain in more than one tooth or that moves from tooth to tooth
• Swelling
• Pain in the lower teeth
• Pressure-induced pain when pushing on a specific tooth
• Pain when chewing

When to See a Dentist

If you have tooth pain, it’s normal to be concerned. However, if you also have symptoms of a sinus infection, you may want to wait a bit before seeing your dentist in Grove City. While every toothache is of concern, one that goes away in a few days may be associated with a sinus infection. If the pain lasts or gets worse day after day, it’s time to see your dentist. Tooth pain that doesn’t go away may be a sign of something serious such as gum disease, cavities, an abscess, or problems with your jaw. By seeing your dentist, you can determine the cause of the pain and get treatment quickly. Keep in mind, most dental problems are best solved quickly before they have a chance to cause additional issues.

If you’re experiencing any type of tooth pain, we encourage you to call a dentist near you to get a closer look at what’s going on so you can get the best treatment and relieve your pain quickly. 

About The Author

Dr. Paula Zimmerman

Dr. Paula Zimmerman is a general and cosmetic dentist and provider of Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen®. She was the first general dentist to become an Elite provider of Invisalign® in the state of Ohio and is currently one of only two providers in Ohio to hold Platinum Provider status. Dr. Zimmerman takes continuing education courses that focus on all aspects of general dentistry, practice management, and Invisalign® to improve patient care.

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