Your upper back teeth can ache because of your sinuses, not your teeth. The maxillary sinuses sit directly above the roots of the upper molars and premolars, so when they become inflamed and full of pressure, that pressure can press on the nerves near the tooth roots and feel exactly like a toothache.
Key takeaways
- Sinus-related tooth pain usually affects several upper back teeth on one side at once, rather than a single tooth.
- It tends to be a dull, throbbing pressure that worsens when you bend forward or lie down.
- Nasal congestion, facial pressure, and a recent cold or hay fever point towards a sinus cause.
- Tooth problems can also cause sinus trouble. If pain is sharp, focused on one tooth, or lingers after the congestion clears, see a dentist.
Why sinuses cause tooth pain
The maxillary sinuses are two air-filled spaces in the cheekbones, one on each side, sitting just above the upper back teeth. In many people the roots of these teeth are separated from the sinus by only a thin layer of bone. When a cold, hay fever, or infection inflames the sinus lining, fluid builds up and the pressure inside rises. That pressure transmits to the nearby tooth roots, producing an ache that is easy to mistake for a dental problem. This is called referred pain.
Sinus toothache versus a dental problem
A few features help tell them apart, though only an examination can confirm it.
| Feature | Sinus-related pain | Dental problem |
|---|---|---|
| Number of teeth | Several upper back teeth on one side | Usually one specific tooth |
| Type of pain | Dull, throbbing pressure | Sharp or jabbing, especially with hot or cold |
| Worse when | Bending forward, lying down | Biting or chewing on that tooth |
| Other symptoms | Congestion, facial pressure, runny nose | Usually none of these |
| Timing | Follows a cold or hay fever, eases as congestion clears | Persists regardless of sinuses |
If your pain improves as your nose clears, that strongly suggests a sinus cause. If it is pinned to one tooth and reacts to hot or cold, it is more likely dental. Our guide on toothache at night covers other pain patterns.
The two-way link between teeth and sinuses
The connection runs both ways. Just as sinus problems can cause tooth pain, a dental infection can cause sinus problems. Research suggests that more than 40 percent of infections in the maxillary sinus actually start from a dental source, such as an infected upper tooth or a problem that spreads after dental treatment. This is one reason a lingering one-sided sinus issue, especially with a bad taste or smell, is worth having a dentist check. Our guide on signs of a tooth abscess explains what a dental infection looks like.
What you can do at home
If the cause is a sinus infection or congestion, easing the congestion usually eases the tooth pain.
- Steam and humidity. Inhaling steam or using a warm shower can loosen mucus and relieve pressure.
- Stay hydrated. Fluids thin the mucus so the sinuses can drain.
- Saline rinses. A saline nasal spray or rinse can clear the nasal passages.
- Over-the-counter relief. A decongestant or simple pain relief may help. Follow the packet and ask a pharmacist if unsure.
- Sleep propped up. Keeping your head raised reduces pressure overnight.
Most viral sinus congestion settles within a week or two. If it does not, a GP can advise on whether further treatment is needed.
When to see a dentist or doctor
See a dentist if the pain is focused on a single tooth, is sharp, reacts strongly to hot or cold, lingers after your sinuses clear, or comes with swelling of the gum or face. These point to a dental cause that will not resolve on its own. See a GP if you have a high fever, severe or worsening facial pain, or symptoms that drag on beyond a couple of weeks. If you are unsure where the pain is coming from, a dental exam and x-ray are a good starting point, since they can quickly rule a tooth in or out. Our guide on what to do in a dental emergency can help if the pain is severe.
Frequently asked questions
Can a sinus infection really cause tooth pain?
Yes. The upper back teeth sit just below the maxillary sinuses, so sinus pressure can press on the nearby nerves and feel like a toothache.
How do I know if my toothache is from my sinuses?
Sinus pain usually affects several upper teeth on one side, feels like dull pressure, worsens when you bend over, and comes with congestion. It often eases as the nose clears.
Which teeth hurt with sinus problems?
Almost always the upper back teeth, the molars and premolars, because they sit directly beneath the maxillary sinuses.
Will a sinus toothache go away on its own?
If it is caused by viral congestion, it usually settles as the sinuses clear, often within a week or two. Pain that lingers should be checked.
Should I see a dentist or a doctor?
See a dentist if the pain is focused on one tooth or reacts to hot and cold. See a GP for fever, severe facial pain, or congestion that lasts beyond a couple of weeks. When unsure, a dental exam can rule a tooth in or out.
Booking with the team at Lumi Dental
If you have upper tooth pain and are not sure whether it is your teeth or your sinuses, the team at Lumi Dental can examine and x-ray the area to find the cause. See current new patient offers on our offers page, or read about general dental care at Melrose Park.
