How to Tell Between Sinus Pain and a Toothache

Sinuses are closely connected to the upper teeth and jaw. Because of this, an infection in the tooth may radiate into the sinuses and a sinus infection may present as a toothache. If you’re not sure if the pain you’re feeling is from sinusitis or a tooth infection, the following information may help.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an infection in the sinuses that often clears up by itself. The infection can be caused by a common cold or allergies. If your sinusitis lasts longer than 8 weeks or reoccurs often, it would be considered chronic and you should visit your doctor.

Symptoms of sinusitis are as follows:

• Persistent cough
• Sore throat due to post-nasal drip
• Discharge from the sinus passages
• Swelling of the sinuses accompanied by a headache
• Dull pain radiating in the eyes, forehead, nose and even the jaws or teeth

Toothache

The best way to discover the source of pain is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. If you do in fact have a tooth infection, it’s vital that you detect and treat it as soon as possible. If left untreated, a tooth infection can cause a lot of pain and other health risks. A simple X-Ray can allow us to determine whether your sinuses or a tooth infection are the cause of your pain.

Lastly, because the sinuses and the teeth are interconnected, it can be possible for an infection in one can lead to an infection in the other.

If you believe that you have a tooth infection, the best way to save your tooth is through root canal therapy. To make an appointment with a skilled endodontist, please contact Sypres & Pangborn. Our endodontic office is located here in Centennial, Colorado.