Is It Sinus Pressure or a Toothache? Here’s How to Tell Before You Panic!

Woodlands Family Dental | The Woodlands, TX

Ever had a throbbing pain in your upper teeth and immediately thought, “Great. Another cavity”? Before you book an emergency dental visit, let’s take a closer look. That tooth pain you’re feeling might not be a dental issue at all, it could be your sinuses acting up!

At Woodlands Family Dental, we see it all the time. Patients come in convinced they need a root canal, only to discover their sinuses are the real troublemakers.

So, how do you tell the difference between sinus pressure and a true toothache? Let’s break it down.

The Surprising Connection Between Your Sinuses and Your Teeth

Your upper back teeth sit right below your maxillary sinuses. When those sinuses get inflamed, thanks to allergies, a cold, or even Texas’ ever-changing weather—they can put pressure on the nerves of your teeth. The result? Dull, aching pain that feels like a toothache.

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Toothache vs. Sinus Pain: What’s the Difference?

It might be sinus-related if…

    •    The pain is spread across several upper teeth, not just one

    •    You feel pressure under your eyes or in your cheeks

    •    You’re congested or battling seasonal allergies

    •    Bending over makes the pain worse

    •    The ache lessens when you lie down

It’s probably a true toothache if…

    •    The pain is sharp and focused on one specific tooth

    •    You have swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain when chewing

    •    The ache gets worse over time and doesn’t improve with allergy or sinus meds

Still not sure? That’s where we come in.

When to Call Woodlands Family Dental!

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to play it safe. At Woodlands Family Dental, our expert team can pinpoint the exact cause of your pain...and fast. We’ll take digital X-rays, check for signs of infection, and help you get the relief you need, whether it’s dental or sinus-related.

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Bonus Tip: How to Relieve Sinus Pressure at Home

If you suspect it’s your sinuses:

    •    Try a warm compress across your cheeks and nose

    •    Use a saline nasal rinse or decongestant

    •    Stay hydrated and avoid allergens

    •    Try over-the-counter antihistamines if allergies are triggering it

But if those tricks don’t help, or the pain keeps coming back, don’t wait. Chronic sinus issues can lead to dental complications, and ignoring a real tooth infection could turn into a much bigger (and more expensive) problem.

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Final Takeaway

Sinus pressure can mimic a toothache, but the only way to know for sure is to get checked out. Whether it’s dental or sinus-related, we’re here to help.

Serving patients in The Woodlands, Creekside, and beyond! Schedule your appointment today!

Let us help you breathe easy and smile pain-free.

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