Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, can sometimes cause tooth pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper teeth. This phenomenon occurs because the maxillary sinus, which is one of the four pairs of sinuses located in the cheekbones, is situated close to the roots of the upper molars and premolars. When the maxillary sinus becomes inflamed or infected, it can put pressure on the roots of these teeth, leading to pain that feels like a toothache.
Here are some key points to understand about the link between sinus infections and tooth pain:
- Location of Maxillary Sinus: The maxillary sinus is located above the roots of the upper molars and premolars. When the sinus becomes inflamed due to infection, allergies, or other factors, it can cause pressure and discomfort in these teeth.
- Symptoms: Tooth pain caused by a sinus infection often presents as a dull, throbbing ache in the upper teeth, particularly when bending forward or lying down. Other symptoms of sinusitis may include facial pain, pressure or tenderness around the cheeks and eyes, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, headache, and fever.
- Misdiagnosis: Because sinusitis can mimic the symptoms of a toothache, it’s not uncommon for individuals to mistake sinus-related tooth pain for a dental problem. In some cases, patients may undergo unnecessary dental treatments, such as fillings or root canals, before realizing that their symptoms are due to sinusitis.
- Diagnosis: A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the cause of tooth pain. In cases where sinusitis is suspected, a medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as sinus X-rays or CT scans may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
- Treatment: Treatment for sinus-related tooth pain focuses on addressing the underlying sinus infection or inflammation. This may include antibiotics (if the infection is bacterial), decongestants, nasal saline irrigation, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and pain relievers. In some cases, sinus surgery may be recommended for chronic or recurrent sinusitis