Tooth pain isn’t just uncomfortable – it can also be very stubborn. Even if you try to treat it with one remedy, it may persist.

Well, one of the reasons that tooth pain can be so stubborn is that it could come from an unexpected source. For example, did you know that sinus pressure can cause tooth pain

How Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain are Related

There are four pairs of sinuses that lie within the skull. The biggest pair of sinuses are the maxillary sinuses, which lie within the cheekbones.

Sinus infections, or sinusitis, occurs when bacteria enters any of the sinuses and becomes inflamed. Due to all of the bacteria, sinuses may feel heavy and put pressure on other areas of the face. Since the maxillary sinuses lie right above the upper jaw, your teeth may feel the pressure of the sinus infection.

How Do I Know I Have a Sinus Infection?

Tooth pain is just one (albeit less common) symptom of sinus infection. If you are experiencing these symptoms alongside your toothache, you might have a sinus infection:

• Fever
• Swollen cheeks
• Stuffy, runny nose
• Persistent cough
• Bad breath
• Persistent facial or head pain that intensifies when you lie down

Any sort of sinus pressure can cause tooth pain – not just a sinus infection. Even if you don’t feel sinus pressure throughout the face, your tooth pain may be the result of bacteria in your maxillary sinuses. The maxillary sinuses are the first sinuses to get hit with bacteria, so your teeth may actually be doing you a favor by warning you about an oncoming sinus infection!

Sinus Pressure Can Affect Tooth Health

Sinus pressure doesn’t just cause tooth pain – it can lead to unhealthy habits. People who suffer from sinus pressure may feel stuffed up and resort to breathing through the mouth.

Which may lead to dry mouth and prevent saliva from killing bacteria that affects teeth.

If you are suffering from sinus pressure, say conscious of how you are breathing. Keep hydrated to encourage saliva production, and remember to brush your teeth regularly.

How to Relieve Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain

The best way to eliminate tooth pain caused by sinus pressure is to eliminate the sinus pressure. As the bacteria leaves your sinuses, your upper teeth should feel some relief.

Follow these tips to stay clear and pain-free:

• Keep your head and upper body elevated while resting (and sleeping, if possible)
• Turn on a humidifier or vaporizer
• Recruit the help of a nasal saline spray to keep nasal passages hydrated
• Apply a warm, damp cloth over your face (particularly the nose and cheekbones)
• Eat a hearty meal with garlic, turmeric, and ginger (these are all natural bacteria-fighters)
• Drink peppermint tea (or tea with any type of anti-inflammatory or anti-bacterial ingredients)
• Reach out to a doctor about appropriate decongestants and other medications to treat your symptoms

Not Sinus Pressure? Other Things That May Cause Your Toothache

Sinus pressure is just one of many things that may cause tooth pain. Similar aches may be the result of:

Tooth grinding

Tooth decay

Damaged fillings

Gum infections

If you have questions about what may be causing your persistent tooth pain, reach out to a local dentist. A routine check-up can help dentists determine if your pain is coming from decay, gum infections, or other common causes of toothaches.