Sinus Pressure or Toothache: How To Tell the Difference

Sinus Pressure or Toothache: How To Tell the Difference

Sinus Pressure or Toothache: How To Tell the Difference

Are you experiencing pain around your face or teeth but can’t determine if it’s sinus pressure or a toothache? This confusion is quite common since the symptoms of these two conditions can be quite similar. Sinus pressure and toothaches can both cause discomfort in the face, but they are completely different issues. Getting the right diagnosis is crucial in preventing the issue from worsening. In this blog, we will discuss how to tell the difference between sinus pressure and a toothache. 

Location of Pain

The location of the pain is the easiest way to determine whether it is a sinus issue or a toothache. Sinus pressure usually causes pain around the cheeks, upper jaw, and temples, whereas a toothache is focused around the teeth and gums. If you can specifically pinpoint where the pain is coming from, it’s more likely to be a toothache.

Nature of Pain

The nature of the pain is also a significant factor. A toothache is typically sharp and intense, while sinus pressure is dull and achy. Sinus pressure also usually affects both sides of your face, while a toothache will affect only one side.

Time of Day

The time of day that the pain occurs can also play a role in diagnosis. Tooth pain typically occurs more frequently at night when lying down, while sinus pressure tends to be worse in the morning when you first wake up.

Additional Symptoms

Additional symptoms can also help you determine whether your discomfort is due to sinus pressure or a toothache. Sinus pressure often comes with nasal congestion, a runny nose, and facial pressure. A toothache, on the other hand, may also come with fever, sensitivity to hot or cold drinks, and pain when chewing food.

Medical History

Your medical history can also play a role in determining the cause of the pain. If you have recurrent sinus infections, allergies, or frequent headaches, then sinus pressure is more likely to be the cause of your discomfort. However, if you have a history of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or have undergone a dental procedure recently, then a toothache is more likely to be the cause.

Sinus pressure and a toothache can cause significant discomfort, and distinguishing between the two can be challenging. However, knowing how to differentiate between these two conditions can help you get the proper treatment and prevent the issue from worsening. It’s essential to pay attention to the symptoms, location, and nature of pain, as well as any additional symptoms you may be experiencing. If you’re still unsure, contact us today at 4th Street Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment. Regular dental check-ups also help in identifying and treating dental problems before they worsen, so it’s essential to visit your dentist regularly. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeking professional help when necessary, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Toothache Myths

St. Pete emergency dentist

There are plenty of theories and misconceptions when it comes to toothaches. When it comes to your health, don’t take any chances; find out the truth about toothaches. Below, Dr. Leeson, your St. Pete dentist, explores the different toothache myths that many patients believe today.

Toothache Myth: Painkillers Treat Toothaches

It’s not the case here. The pain can be momentarily relieved by taking panadol or nurofen, and antibiotics can combat infection surrounding the tooth, none of which is a remedy or permanent solution. The issue is still there and is only going to get worse.

Toothache Myth: A Toothache Equals Cavity

A toothache can often be caused, but not always, by a cavity or early decay. Your bite, scratching, a chip or crack, a fracture, or nerve issues may be associated with a toothache.

Toothache Myth: Toothaches Happen To Everyone

While toothaches are widespread, they are a sign of an issue and should not be ignored. The longer you neglect a toothache or put up with it, the worse the issue will get. If the pain is from a cavity, the cavity will decay more and more rapidly. If the ache is from nerve problems, if left untreated, the nerve will die.

Toothache Myth: If My Toothache Goes Away, My Tooth is Okay

Even if the toothache’s intensity decreases or even appears to vanish, it doesn’t mean that the issue is fixed, explains Dr. Christopher Green sedation dentist Parker CO. Decay can cause pain and sensitivity that comes and goes, or it may mean that because the nerve has died, you simply do not feel the pain anymore. You always see the dentist.

Toothache Myth: Sensitive Toothpaste Will Help Treat My Toothache 

Responsive toothpaste will temporarily alleviate a toothache that responds to hot or cold foods or beverages, but as with any other short-term solutions, this is not a permanent cure and will not necessarily address the cause of the toothache.

Now that you know the truth about toothaches, you can decide whether or not you should visit your dentist in St. Petersburg, FL. If you’re still unsure about seeing your dentist, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for a consultation. Dr. Leeson will take dental x-rays, give you a full mouth evaluation, and treatment plan.