What to do when you have a toothache with a sinus infection

Toothache can be very uncomfortable, especially when it’s paired with a sinus infection. 

Many people are unaware that the two are often related, but actually have a pretty close relationship.

The team here at our Birmingham dental hospital are here to tell you about what to do when you get struck with symptoms and why the two are related. 

What is toothache?

Toothache is when the tooth and the area around it feel sore, even more so when eating and talking. 

It isn’t always a  result of poor dental hygiene or decay, but it can also occur alongside a sinus infection. 

Can a toothache cause a sinus infection? 

Surprisingly, yes!

As the roots of the teeth sit closely to the sinus cavity, damage to the tooth can cause sinusitis. 

If the pain comes first, and any cold and flu-like symptoms appear second, you likely have problems with your teeth and/or gums that need to be assessed by a professional. They’ll be able to determine where the ache is coming from and give you advice on the course of action to take. 

Can a sinus infection cause tooth pain? 

Sinuses are located throughout the body, but the ones most people are aware of are the paranal sinuses which are the ones around the mouth and nose. 

Paranal sinuses are air-filled spaces that sit near the eyes, forehead and just behind your cheekbones. Their job is to warm and moisten the air in your nasal cavity, as well as produce mucus to drain and clean the nose. 

If the sinus becomes blocked with fluid, it can cause infection (also known as sinusitis). 

Why does sinusitis cause toothache? 

The congestion experienced can put pressure on the surrounding sinuses. And, as there is one around your mouth, many people with a sinus infection can experience toothache – usually in the upper jaw, but it can spread to the lower teeth too. 

How long does a sinus toothache last? 

Suppose you’re experiencing toothache along the jaw, paired with sinus infection symptoms like head congestion, a runny nose and lack of energy. In that case, it’s likely to disappear as your symptoms do. 

However, if you’re starting to feel a bit more lively, but your toothache is still around, you should seek advice from your dentist. They’ll be able to get to the root of the problem and give you some advice on how to relieve symptoms. 

How to relieve toothache with sinus infection 

The number one rule when you’re feeling under the weather is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to thin out the mucus, and reduce blockages in the sinuses and other related symptoms – including toothache!

Another great way to keep your nasal passages free from blockage is steam. Inhaling steam can also help relieve any pressure on the teeth and jaw. Pour boiling water into a bowl, position your head over it, cover your head with a towel and inhale deeply for a minute or two every day. 

Over-the-counter pain relief – like ibuprofen and aspirin – helps to alleviate any toothache. Topical gels containing benzocaine can also be applied as required. 

If you find your toothache has led to inflammation around the tooth, doing salt water rinses a few times a day for around 30 seconds helps to soothe the area and reduce further infection. 

Contact the experts 

If you’re struggling with toothache for any reason, don’t hesitate to contact a 24hr dentist in Birmingham here at Scott Arms Dental Practice. 

We have the knowledge and tools to examine your mouth and give you personalised advice on how to relieve any symptoms. 

And, if the pain is down to your teeth, we’ll provide the relevant treatment to get your smile back to full health. 

Contact us today by calling 0121 357 5000 or sending an email to [email protected]  and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible with more information.