I have a sinus infection. Can this cause tooth pain?
Yes, a sinus infection can cause pain in the jaw and teeth. Sinuses are hollow spaces or cavities in the bone and there are many throughout the body. When we talk about sinusitis or sinus infection, we are referring to one of the four sets of sinuses in the front of the face, called the paranasal sinuses.
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the sinuses. A sinus infection occurs when the inflamed sinuses cannot drain properly. The fluid collects in a pool that becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
Each set of sinuses may cause slightly different types of symptoms when sinusitis is present. Your particular symptom, dental pain, is frequently caused by an infection of the maxillary sinuses, located in the cheekbones. I suggest you see a doctor, who will prescribe antibiotics if an infection is found.
Most cases of acute sinusitis develop as a result of colds or viral infections which block nasal drainage and lead to inflammation. They may resolve on their own, particularly if the patient helps the process along with home remedies, such as drinking lots of fluids, inhaling steam, saline (saltwater) nasal washes and over-the-counter decongestants.
Products labeled specifically as “sinus” medications often contain both a decongestant and a painkiller. Sometimes the sinus drainage does not improve and the cold and resulting inflammation lead to an infection which must be treated with antibiotics.