If you feel tooth pain when you’re under the weather, you’re not alone. Conditions like sinus infections can contribute to toothaches. Tooth pain may also be related to dry mouth and as a side effect of medications.
There are things you can do at home to ease symptoms of a sinus infection or a toothache. But it’s a good idea to see a medical provider like a doctor or dentist, especially if your toothache persists after you feel better. If the cause of your pain is a tooth abscess, you need treatment right away. Treatments like root canal therapy can relieve symptoms.
Sinus Infections Can Cause Toothaches
A sinus infection causes inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in your face. Your sinuses warm and moisten the air you breathe. They also produce mucus.
When you have a sinus infection, you may experience an uncomfortable feeling of pressure in your sinuses. And since your sinuses are located near your upper teeth, this can manifest as tooth pain.
Sinus Infection Symptoms
You may be experiencing a sinus infection if you have symptoms like:
- Congestion or thick mucus discharge
- Pain in your facial area (nose, eyes, forehead)
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Ear discomfort
- Fatigue
- Cough, sore throat, or hoarseness
- Muted sense of taste and smell
- Tooth pain
Treatment & Pain Relief
You can try at-home treatments for a sinus infection, such as:
- Hydration: This can help thin out mucus and relieve symptoms.
- Steaming: Take a warm shower or position your face above a hot bowl of soup. The steam can help relieve congestion.
- Nasal irrigation: A nasal spray can help clear congestion. Never use tap water; choose distilled water. Also, be mindful that decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for more than three days in a row. Overusing these sprays can cause more congestion.
For tooth pain, try:
- Cold compresses: Place an ice pack on your cheek, with a cloth between your skin and the pack. Do this 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Check with your doctor first to see which medications are safe for you, especially if you have other health conditions or take other medications. Be sure to follow the medication’s instructions.
- Saltwater rinse: Use 1 teaspoon of salt per 1 cup of water. Rinse out your mouth every two hours.
- Watch what you eat: Some people find that very hot, cold, or sweet foods make their pain worse.
When to Seek Help
Visit your primary care physician if your sinus infection symptoms persist despite treatment, or if they’re especially severe.
If your sinus infection clears up but your tooth pain doesn’t, visit your dentist. Your tooth pain may be due to a tooth abscess, which warrants prompt treatment.
You can also call Health Link in Alberta at 8-1-1 if you have questions about whether you need to seek urgent care. This service is available 24/7.
Other Toothache Causes
There are other causes of toothaches related to illness, such as dry mouth and side effects from medication.
Dry mouth is a symptom of many underlying conditions, from dehydration to medication side effects and even radiation therapy used to treat another illness. Dry mouth can also be caused by diabetes, autoimmune disorders, Alzheimer’s, and other diseases. Dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay, which can be painful.
Medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and antidepressants may lead to dry mouth, which in turn can cause tooth decay and subsequent pain.
Sinus Infection or Dental Problem?
It’s important to understand the cause of your tooth pain because tooth pain caused by dental problems may require immediate care.
If your toothache happens alongside the sinus symptoms mentioned above, it’s likely a sinus problem. But keep an eye on your symptoms; if they persist beyond the sinus infection, see a dentist.
Toothaches caused by dental issues tend to be more focused on a specific area. Meanwhile, toothaches caused by a sinus infection may get worse with certain movements. Jumping up or bending down may make the pain worse, while lying down may make the pain more tolerable.
Take Care of Your Teeth
It’s a good idea to maintain healthy dental hygiene habits, even when you’re sick. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. While it’s ideal to brush after every meal, wait 20 to 30 minutes after you eat to brush.
Throw away your toothbrush and get a new one after you recover from an illness. This helps prevent reinfecting yourself with germs on the toothbrush. Otherwise, replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Dental Care in SW Calgary
You can’t always prevent things like sinus infections and toothaches, but healthy oral hygiene habits can help prevent complications like tooth decay. According to the CDA, many people benefit from a dental visit every six months. Some people require more frequent visits, others less, so discuss with your dentist what your ideal frequency is based on your unique oral health. Due for your next dental exam? Concerned about a toothache that won’t go away? Book an appointment with Ti Dental in SW Calgary. With over 20 years of experience and conveniently located in CF Chinook Centre, our dental team strives to provide a welcoming and judgement-free environment for your dental care.
