Many people are surprised to learn about the connection between sinus pain and tooth pain. If you begin to experience what feels like a toothache, you may immediately suspect a dental cavity or infection. However, there’s also a chance that your toothache is being caused by an issue occurring in the sinuses.
Of the seven sinuses, there’s only one that’s been known to disguise itself as a toothache. This sinus is known as the maxillary sinus. If you’re experiencing a normal amount of congestion and pressure in the maxillary sinus, you may be able to tell where the discomfort is coming from. However, if the pressure and congestion become too severe, the sinus can directly affect the roots of the teeth, causing pain and discomfort.
Toothache Vs. Sinus Problems
There are a few different ways that your regular dentist can tell if your ‘toothache’ is indeed a toothache or if it’s being caused by sinus issues. These signs include:
- Discomfort in several teeth all at once
- Sudden tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- The proximity of the maxillary sinus to the roots of the affected teeth
- No visible signs of decay on the teeth or in oral X-Rays
If you believe you have a toothache, it’s always important to visit your general dentist to make sure that it isn’t a dental cavity or an infection.
For more information about dental implants or the health of your gum tissue, please contact Littleton Implants & Periodontics. Our office is located here in beautiful Littleton, Colorado.