Do You Have Sinus Pressure or a Toothache?

Whether you are suffering from a sinus infection or tooth pain, chances are your daily life is being affected. While these two ailments may seem to be harmless, they can easily turn more serious and require medical or dental intervention. It can be difficult to know where the pain is coming from when it gets severe, so knowing the tell-tale signs is essential so you can schedule an appointment with the right medical professional.

Sinus Issues

If you have ever had a sinus issue, you know that it can affect every part of your face and head. The pain, when severe, can cause swelling and spread as low as the jawline and as high as the top of the brow. Here are some ways to know if it is truly the sinus that ails you:

• Symmetrical Pain. When you have a sinus infection, your pain will usually mirror itself. If you only have pain on one side of your face, then it may not be a sinus issue at all.
• Other Symptoms. Sinus problems are usually accompanied by other cold symptoms such as headache, runny nose or congestion, and sore throat. In severe cases, you will notice a gradual, low-grade fever.
• Family History. Having frequent sinus issues or allergies can be blamed on genetics. If you have a family history of these things, you may be more susceptible yourself.
• Absence of Dental Pain. A true test to know whether or not the pain you have is from your sinuses is to apply pressure directly to your teeth or gums. While your sinus cavities can be tender to the touch, they will not cause a tooth to be tender.

Tooth Aches and Pains

We all get a toothache every now and then. The question is whether or not your toothache turns severe enough to require a dental appointment. At the first sign of a toothache, it is important to note any other symptoms – such as a sudden onset of fever, bleeding or swelling of the gums, or difficulty moving your jaw. It is crucial not to wait when you notice a toothache getting worse, as you may require emergency dental assistance or tooth extraction. How do you know if it is truly a toothache?

• Tender to the touch. Push your tongue or your finger on the tooth, if the pain gets worse, you most likely are touching the area of inflammation and pain.
• Fever. Sudden onset of a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Difficulty Speaking. If you have trouble speaking or eating due to pain when moving the jaw, there is probably an infection of a tooth or gum.
• History of Dental Issues. People who have had previous toothaches, tooth decay, cavities, or other oral health problems are at a higher risk of suffering from toothaches. If you know you are prone to this pain, it is important to communicate with your dentist.

Prevention and Treatment

Whether it is a sinus problem or a toothache, it is important to speak with your doctor or dentist. When severe, both ailments may require antibiotics. For a toothache, an immediate extraction may be necessary. You will need to consult with your general practitioner about prevention and treatment of your sinus issues, but here are some things you can do to avoid toothaches:

• Avoid sugar.
• Brush twice per day.
• Floss daily.
• Drink a lot of water.
• See your dentist at least twice per year for annual cleaning, a set of x-rays, and check-ups.

If you are concerned about your dental health, please contact us at Sage Dental Care and schedule an appointment. New patients can be seen for their first exam (which includes x-rays and cleaning) for just $59.