If you are experiencing tooth pain but can’t pinpoint the cause, your sinuses may be to blame. Many people are surprised to learn that sinus infections can create pressure that feels like a toothache, especially in the upper back teeth.

Understanding the connection between your sinuses and your teeth can help you determine when to see a dentist and when to seek medical care.

What is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, occurs when the tissue lining your sinuses becomes inflamed. This can be caused by a cold, allergies, or a bacterial infection. When your sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, pressure builds up, which can lead to discomfort in your face and teeth.

Some common symptoms of a sinus infection include:

Why Do Sinus Infections Cause Tooth Pain?

The sinuses are very close to the upper teeth; the maxillary sinus is near the molars and premolars with only a thin sheet of bone as separation. When these sinuses become inflamed or filled with pressure, they can press down on the roots of your teeth, creating a sensation that feels like a toothache.

How Long Does Sinus Tooth Pain Last?

Sinus-related tooth pain usually improves as the sinus infection clears. Most mild sinus infections resolve within 7 to 10 days, though some may last longer depending on the cause. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen over time, it may be a sign of a bacterial infection that requires medical treatment.

Is Your Sinus Infection Indicating a Dental Problem?

An estimated 20% of maxillary sinus infections are linked to oral health problems, such as gum disease. Gum disease can range from mild to severe inflammation, irritation, and even infection of the gum tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. Diseased gums and infected bone can spread to the bone that separates the teeth from the sinuses. The spread of bacteria and infection from one place to the other irritates your nerves and sparks pain that warns your brain that something is wrong. An abscess is an infection that impacts the inner chamber (root canal) of the tooth. If a dental abscess is present, it can lead to pus pockets, gum recession, extreme tooth pain, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Abscesses require treatment ASAP to protect your oral health from further damage!

Call Our Office

If you’re having persistent or extreme pain in your sinuses and/or your teeth, we want to see you right away. If it’s an abscess, we will treat it to eliminate infection and pain in both the sinus cavity and your mouth. You’ll experience dental relief when the cause of your pain is addressed, whether it’s through root canal therapy or a special treatment for gum disease. We are highly skilled at treating all kinds of dental problems and will make you as comfortable as possible.