Sinus Infections and Mouth Pain: What’s the Connection?

Millions of people suffer from sinus infections each year, and many of them also experience mouth pain. But what’s the connection? Is sinus infection pain worse than other types of pain? How can you tell if you have a sinus infection? Explore the relationship between sinus infections and mouth pain by learning how both conditions are treated, and get relief from your symptoms!

Sinus Infections Are a Common Condition

While sinus infections are not usually serious, they can cause discomfort and frustration. In addition to pain in the sinus cavities, many people with these infections also experience mouth pain. So what’s the connection between sinus infections and mouth pain?

There are several reasons why sinus infections can cause oral discomfort. One of the most common reasons is that the sinuses and the mouth are connected by a small passageway. This passageway allows air to flow from the sinuses to the nose and throat and drains mucus from the sinuses into the throat.

When the sinuses become inflamed, this passageway can become blocked, which can cause a buildup of mucus in the sinuses. This mucus can then drip down into the throat and irritate the tissues there, causing pain.

Pain Associated with Sinus Infections

Sinus infection often presents as a constant dull ache that can radiate to the teeth, jaw and ears. This is because the sinuses are located next to these structures. When the sinuses become inflamed, the pressure from the inflammation can cause pain in these surrounding areas.

If you think you might have a sinus infection, it’s important to see a doctor so that you can get the proper treatment. Sinus infections are usually treated with antibiotics, and most people start to feel better within a week or two of starting treatment. However, in some cases, sinus infections can lead to more severe complications, so it’s always best to see a doctor if you think you might have one.

Sinus Infections and Mouth Pain Can Be Linked

Sinus infections can cause a buildup of pressure in the sinuses, leading to jaw and tooth pain. Sinus infections can also cause inflammation in the sinuses, which can lead to discomfort in the face and head. ENT doctors are specialists who treat conditions of the ear, nose and throat. Sinus infections are a common condition that ENT doctors treat.

Treatment of Sinus Infections and Mouth Pain Can Vary

Sinus infections can be treated with antibiotics, decongestants or surgery. Sinus infections that are caused by allergies can be treated with antihistamines. Sinus infections that are caused by a virus cannot be treated with antibiotics.

Mouth pain can be treated with over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, a doctor may prescribe a stronger medication if the discomfort is severe or isn’t resolving. In addition, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if bacteria caused a sinus infection to develop.

Some common home remedies for sinus infections include drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier and avoiding irritants like smoke and pollen. Nasal decongestants can also be helpful in relieving sinus pressure. Sinus infections usually resolve within two weeks without treatment. However, if the sinus infection does not improve after two weeks, or if it worsens, you should see a specialist.

Can Teeth Problems Cause Sinus Infections?

Yes, sinus infections can be caused by tooth problems. So, if you have a sinus infection and mouth pain, it’s important to see a doctor to find out if the cause is a tooth problem or something else. Viruses often cause sinus infections but can also be caused by bacteria, fungi or other irritants. Sinus infections can be acute, meaning they last for a short time or chronic, meaning they last for more than three months. Sinus infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including aching of the sinuses, congestion, runny nose, fever and fatigue.

Sinus infections and mouth discomfort can be symptomatic of a variety of things. Therefore, if you have sinus infections and mouth pain, it’s important to see an ENT doctor to find out the cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Contact information

If you have any further questions or need information on the most common treatments for chronic or constant cases of sinus infections, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat Associates at one of our convenient locations:

• Sylva: 828-586-7474
• Franklin: 828-524-5599
• Murphy: 828-835-1014
• New Asheville: 828-458-8100.