It is not uncommon to experience aching or pain in your teeth while you are battling a sinus infection or even a common cold. Not only is it uncomfortable and maybe even a little scary, but it is a symptom that is experienced by a lot of people when they are sick. So, how can you tell if you have a toothache or pressure from a sinus infection? Why does an issue with your nose cause your teeth to hurt?  

What and Where Are My Sinuses?

Sinuses are pockets filled with air that can be found in various spots all over your face. The walls of your sinuses are lined with tiny hairs called cilia. These cilia act as a filter for all of the mucous, air, and bacteria that pass through your sinuses. 

Human beings have four distinct sets of sinuses that take up space inside our heads in order to make them lighter. They also create mucus which serves to empty your nasal cavity and clean out your nose. These four pairs of sinuses are:

• Frontal sinuses: located in the bone over your eyebrows.
• Sphenoid sinuses: located near your optic nerve and your pituitary gland, which is in your brain. These are placed towards the back of your head and are not paired up like the others.
• Ethmoid sinuses: located at the top of your nose, between your eyes. The divide your brain from your nasal cavity.
• Maxillary sinuses: located on both sides of your nose, behind your cheekbones. These are the largest of the four sets and are shaped like triangles. 

The Difference Between a Toothache and Sinus Pain

Pain in your teeth that is caused by a sinus infection typically lessens over time as your infection gets better and the affected air pockets become clear again. If the pain that you feel in your teeth does not dissipate over the course of a few days and you encounter any of the below-listed symptoms in addition to your toothache, it is possible that you have a dental problem.

• Constant tooth pain anytime you drink or eat something cold or hot.
• Inflammation in your face on or near the area that hurts.
• Swollen gums surrounding the painful tooth or teeth.

At McBride Dental, we want to help you and your family do everything possible to have and preserve healthy teeth and gums. By scheduling regular appointments with your California family dentist and practicing the oral care techniques we teach you, your whole family will easily maintain teeth that are healthy, strong, and effective.

The San Marcos offices of Dr. Michael McBride are staffed with reputable, professional San Diego area dentists that are ready to address any concerns you may have regarding common dental procedures, as well as preventative, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry. 

It is our job to help you and your family establish healthy dental habits to make sure that your teeth will always be there when you need them and your smile will always look great.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with a San Marcos dentist, please give us a call at (760) 471-1003 and speak with a trained member of our dental staff today.