There are many reasons that a toothache can start, from damaged enamel to a cavity, cracked tooth, or sensitivity to certain foods. However, what is not as commonly known is that sometimes tooth pain can actually be caused by a sinus infection. Yes, that's right- a sinus infection. Let's continue.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 31 million people in the United States get sinus infections, also known as sinusitis- per year. But what causes them, and how can they cause tooth sensitivity?
A sinus infection occurs when the nasal passage cavities become swollen and inflamed and a mucus build-up occurs because the sinuses are unable to drain like normal. A virus, such as the common cold, is the usual culprit for this type of inflammation, but it can also be caused by allergies or bacteria.
The excess mucus in the sinuses creates a perfect environment for an infection to occur due to the build-up of moisture. Now we are going to talk about how this relates to sensitive teeth.
How Can a Sinus Infection Affect Sensitive Teeth?
Your upper molars, more specifically, their roots- are in fact located in your face very close to your sinuses. The largest sinuses are a pair above the back teeth of your upper jaw. The roots of the upper teeth are very near or may even extend into the sinus cavity.
Most of the time, mucus is able to drain out and air is able to flow through the sinuses. Once those cavities become enflamed and infected, this often can be felt as tooth pain due to the close proximity in the structure of your face.
This infection can also amplify the effects of cold and hot foods on sensitive teeth due to the swelling and pressure on your sinuses.
What Happens Next?
It is difficult to say how long a tooth ache from a sinus infection can last, but typically, once the infection starts to fade, the tooth sensitivity will as well. If you are still experiencing tooth pain after your sinus infection goes away, it is best to visit your dentist right away to rule out other possible causes as well. If your sinus infection is lingering, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics as well.
Of course, the best way to avoid a toothache in the first place is visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and following a consistent routine of brushing and flossing twice per day. Other preventive measures may be recommended as well especially if your teeth are more sensitive than others.
If you find yourself with a toothache and a sinus infection at the same time, some home remedies that may help include a warm compress on your sinuses to reduce swelling several times per day, increasing your fluid intake to thin out any mucus that has been building up, and using a humidifier in your room while sleeping.
A physician will be able to determine the next best steps if your condition does not seem to be improving after ten days. Even if you think your tooth pain is related to your sinuses and should be treated by a doctor, see a dentist to rule out dental problems.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000647.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-sinusitis/expert-answers/toothache/faq-20058299
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-sinusitis/multimedia/sinusitus-and-tooth-pain/img-20186076
Comments