Sometimes a toothache isn’t a tooth problem, but a sinus issue. Many people see a dentist in Edina, MN, thinking they will need a filling, but the pain is actually caused by pressure in the sinus cavities, alternatively referred to as sinuses. If you know how to distinguish between a tooth and sinus cause of pain, you could save time, money and discomfort. If you want to know, “How to tell if tooth pain is from sinus?” continue reading this blog.
How to Know when Tooth Pain is from Sinuses?
Sinus tooth pain typically feels different from regular dental pain. Here are some things to consider:
- Pain in multiple upper teeth simultaneously.
- Pain that worsens with pressure, which may increase when bending over or lying down.
- Feelings of heaviness in the cheeks, forehead or around the eyes.
- History of cold, allergy or sinus infection symptoms.
If you aim to know some of the home remedies for sinus tooth pain, read this whole blog.
Quick Comparison: Sinus Pain vs. Tooth Pain
| Feature | Sinus-Related Pain | Dental Pain |
| Location | Affects multiple upper teeth | Usually one tooth |
| Triggers | Worse when bending forward | Worse with hot/cold foods |
| Other Signs | Stuffy nose, facial pressure | Swelling, sensitivity, cavities |
If your pain matches the symptoms of sinus, you should consult your local dentist. If it feels like a single tooth, it’s time to see a dentist.
Why Sinus Problems Cause Tooth Pain?
The sinuses are hollow spaces located just above the teeth in each of the upper bones. When the sinuses are swollen, filled with mucus from a cold, allergies or an infection, they push down on the roots of the upper teeth below, which hurts even though the tooth is fine and the issue is coming from the sinus. This is why many people seek sinus tooth pain relief, but often confuse it with regular dental pain.
Some of the Home Methods for Sinus Tooth Pain
You may find comfort from sinus within easy home methods, such as:
- Drink plenty of water to thin mucus
- Saline spray or rinse
- Steam – either a hot shower or a bowl of hot water
- Put a warm compress on the infected area
- Rest to give your body time to heal
These strategies can help in a pinch, but if they persist, you may need care from a health professional.
Tooth Pain Related To Sinus Infection
With persistent sinus pain, the physician or dentist may consider some of the sinus infection tooth pain treatment:
- Antihistamines or decongestants for pollen or allergies
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Nasal sprays to decrease the swelling
If persistent, see a dental office near you to rule out a decayed tooth or an abscessed tooth
Treatment Options at a Glance
| Type of Care | Helps With | Given By |
| Decongestants/antihistamines | Allergy-related sinus swelling | Doctor/Pharmacist |
| Antibiotics | Bacterial sinus infections | Doctor |
| Corticosteroid sprays | Reduce sinus inflammation | Doctor |
| Dental checkup | Rule out cavities or infections | Dentist |
When to See a Dentist vs. a Doctor?
It can be confusing to know where to go first. Here’s a guide:
| Symptom | Best First Step |
| Pain in many upper teeth + sinus pressure | Visit your doctor |
| Pain in one tooth, especially with hot/cold | See a dentist |
| Pain that continues after sinus treatment | Visit both the dentist and the doctor |
When a patient with sinus tooth pain sees a dentist, the dentist can examine their teeth and determine if their teeth are healthy. If the teeth are healthy and the sinus infection is the only cause of the pain, there is no use in subjecting the patient to a root canal treatment just for something that is not dental.
Why Does a Dental Visit Still Matters?
Even if you are ultimately treated for sinuses, seeing the dentist will rule out dental problems such as cavities or if teeth are infected. The dentist will rule out a cavity or an infection and may do some of the following:
- May take X-rays of teeth to possibly observe the roots of captured teeth.
- May recommend root canal treatment if a cavity or an infection is found.
- May consider checking the gums for periodontitis.
- May refer back to a physician.
This way, you don’t miss a dental problem hiding under sinus-like symptoms.
FAQ
Can a sinus infection cause teeth to hurt?
Yes, sinus infections create pressure on the upper teeth, which often feels like a toothache.
How long can you expect sinus tooth pain to last?
Sinus tooth pain typically lasts as long as the sinus infection or inflammation, which is usually 7 to 10 days.
How can I tell my tooth pain is not sinus-related?
If it hurts when hot or cold, and only in one tooth, then it is most likely a dental issue.
What is the quickest way to relieve sinus tooth pain?
Steam inhalation, warm compresses, and over-the-counter decongestants often help.
Can a dentist treat tooth pain from sinus issues?
A dentist can help to eliminate a dental cause and refer you to a doctor if needed for sinus pain.