How to tell if tooth pain is caused by a sinus infection

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, strike more than 30 million Americans each year. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pressure and headaches. Tooth pain could be a sign of a sinus infection, too.

Experts, including Ahmad Sedaghat, MD, PhD, FACS, professor of otolaryngology in the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, recently explained the connection to Woman's World and shared the telltale signs a toothache could be due to a sinus infection rather than a dental problem.

Most sinus infections are caused by upper respiratory viral infections, but in some cases, viral sinusitis can burgeon into a bacterial sinus infection. 

“We all have bacteria that live in our nose and our sinuses normally,” said Sedaghat.

He explained viral infections can trap mucus inside sinus passages to create an environment that allows bacteria to grow out of control.

Tooth pain can be common with sinus infections, because the roots of the upper molars are close to the maxillary sinuses, which are the pair of sinus cavities located behind the cheekbone. When the sinuses become inflamed, pressure builds up. It can irritate the nerves of the teeth and cause pain.

Tooth pain that affects only upper teeth, accompanied by nasal symptoms, a headache and tooth pain that worsens with a change in positions are all indications of a possible sinus infection, as opposed to a dental problem.

Studies show most sinus infections tend to resolve on their own in seven to 10 days. Antibiotics are generally only necessary if the infection is bacterial or if symptoms persist or worsen after about seven days.

But Sedaghat recommends that if pain is severe or persistent, or if there are additional symptoms like fever, facial swelling or prolonged nasal discharge, it’s best to seek medical advice.

He also said that if a person is experiencing eye pain and swelling, mental confusion or a stiff neck, seek immediate medical attention. 

Click here to read the full report in Woman's World.

Featured image at top: Illustration of woman with inflamed sinuses blowing her nose. Image/Provided.