Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Dr Gustavo Assatourians DDS
Sinusitis is a frequent problem due to various factors, among them allergic reactions or infections from different agents. The maxillary sinus is part of all the sinuses and is in close relationship with the back teeth of the upper jaw. It can produce odontalgia, i.e. a sensation of sinus infection tooth pain that is often confused with other conditions.
What are the paranasal sinuses?
The paranasal sinuses are cavities located in the skull. They are even and connected to the nasal cavity. These cavities are lined with a mucous membrane that when inflamed often causes pain. Within the paranasal sinuses, we have the frontal, ethmoidal, sphenoid, and maxillary sinuses. The latter, due to its location, is most closely related to the posterior teeth of the upper jaw.
What is sinusitis?
The American Rhinological Society defines sinusitis as an inflammation of the membranes lining the nasal cavity that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. The pressure produced by the accumulation of mucus produces pressure on the nerve endings, causing sinus infection tooth pain in one or more teeth. If this inflammation persists for more than two weeks, it can be called acute sinusitis; and if it persists for more than three months, it will be called chronic sinusitis.
Causes of sinusitis
Most sinus infection tooth pain is caused by viruses, but some can be caused by bacteria and even fungi. In addition, there are factors that can increase the risk of presenting sinusitis:
- History of colds.
- Allergies to the weather or the current season.
- Smoking or being around tobacco smokers.
- Nasal polyps.
- A weakened immune system.
Symptoms of sinusitis
Among the symptoms that occur more frequently::
- Abundant nasal fluid.
- Sensation of nasal congestion.
- Sensation of pressure in the head accompanied by pain.
- Headache.
- Upper toothache.
- Dripping mucus in the throat (postnasal drip).
- Sore throat.
- Bad breath.
Sinus infection and tooth pain?
Sinusitis is a disease that also causes toothache thus called sinus infection tooth pain, because of its close or often direct relationship with the maxillary sinuses. Due to this proximity, an infection in the maxillary sinus could cause pain in the premolars or upper molars; conversely, the infection of a tooth can cause sinusitis.
Tips to alleviate symptoms of sinus infection tooth pain
Among the measures to reduce or alleviate the symptoms of sinusitis are the following options:
- Rest: Sleeping and taking a rest helps increase the defenses in the body so it will produce a greater number of cells that fight against the microorganisms present in infections. Rest means a faster recovery.
- Hydration: The consumption of liquids favors a quick recovery since it reduces the accumulation of mucus.
- Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the nose and forehead helps reduce the pressure at this level, relieving discomfort in the sinuses.
- Inhaling steam: Steam helps to moisten the mucosa of the sinus cavity and reduces the pain that occurs. could be applied as compresses or towels dipped in hot water and wrung out. This may be complemented by using mint in water, due to its decongestant power.
- Nasal washes: The use of syringes filled with salt water in the nasal cavity helps to wash out these cavities and at the same time hydrates the mucosa, favoring the elimination of the symptomatology.
- Humming to sleep: According to a study published in “The New York Times”, emitting sounds with the mouth closed, especially the letter “m” (which is where the greatest number of vibrations are produced when reproducing the sound) helps to reduce the pain produced in the paranasal sinuses. The flow of air in this area acts in a similar way as water in reducing and cleaning the accumulation of mucus.
- Position of the head: The position of the head relieves sinusitis. Placing it in a raised position allows for better ventilation and airflow; when taking a break, it is advisable to place the head in a tilted position to relieve any pain.
Contact us
If you have any questions about this topic or any other, please feel free to contact or visit us at Channel Island Family Dental. At Channel Island Family Dental we will be attentive to your visit to make a timely diagnosis. In addition, our dentists in Oxnard, Santa Paula, Ventura o Port Hueneme will be able to guide you to the best treatment to bring back your best smile.
