Tooth pain isn’t always caused by cavities or gum disease. Sometimes, the problem starts in your sinuses. If you’ve ever had a cold or sinus infection and noticed aching in your upper teeth, you’re not imagining it. Sinus issues can create pressure that mimics dental pain, making it hard to tell the difference between a toothache and sinus-related discomfort.

How Are Sinuses and Teeth Connected?

Your sinuses are air-filled spaces located near your nose and forehead. The maxillary sinuses, which sit above your upper molars, are especially close to your teeth. When these sinuses become inflamed or filled with fluid due to allergies, colds, or infections, they can press against the roots of your upper teeth, causing pain.

How to Tell If Your Tooth Pain Is From Sinus Problems

1. Pain in Multiple Teeth – Sinus-related tooth pain usually affects several upper molars, rather than just one specific tooth.
2. Increased Pain When Moving Your Head – If bending over, lying down, or sudden movements make the pain worse, it could be sinus pressure.
3. Congestion or Facial Pressure – If you have a stuffy nose, pressure around your cheeks, or a recent cold, your toothache may be linked to sinus inflammation.
4. No Sensitivity to Hot or Cold – Unlike cavities, sinus-related tooth pain is not triggered by temperature changes.
5. Pain Goes Away After Treating Sinus Issues – If your toothache improves after taking a decongestant or clearing your sinuses, it was likely caused by sinus pressure.

What to Do If You Have Sinus-Related Tooth Pain

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus, reducing sinus congestion and pressure.
2. Use a Saline Rinse: A saline spray or neti pot can clear out your sinuses and relieve pressure.
3. Try Steam Therapy: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of warm water can open up your sinuses and ease discomfort.
4. Take Over-the-Counter Medication: Decongestants and antihistamines can reduce sinus swelling, helping to relieve pressure on your teeth.
5. Rest and Manage Allergies: If allergies are triggering your sinus issues, taking antihistamines or avoiding allergens can prevent future sinus-related tooth pain.

When to See a Dentist

If the pain persists even after your sinuses clear, it may not be sinus-related. Dental problems such as cavities, infections, or gum disease can sometimes feel like sinus pain. A professional exam can determine the true cause and provide the right treatment.

If you’re unsure whether your tooth pain is from your sinuses or a dental issue, our multi-award-winning dental clinic in Scarborough can assess your symptoms and provide expert care. Call us today at (416) 321-3268 to book an appointment.