Having pain that radiates and throbs for days at a time can make it difficult to find the source. In fact, when pain is focused around the face, neck, and head – there are so many things that could be causing your discomfort that it may be frustrating to know how to treat it. If you are suffering from pain in the mouth/nasal/brow areas of the face, you may wonder if you have sinus issues or a toothache. We are here to help you learn the differences.
Sinus Problems
More than 31 million people all around the United States suffer from sinus issues and spend close to $1 billion annually on treatments. While a common ailment, it does not make it any less difficult to pinpoint. Symptoms or issues that point to sinus problems and not a toothache are:
- Pain on both sides of the face.
- Additional cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, congestion, sore throat, and cough.
- Discomfort that is not sudden.
- Seasonal allergies.
- History of sinus problems – either in you or your family.
If you do think that you are sensitive to sinus problems, it may be worth contacting your primary care provider for more treatment options. Many people with recurring sinus infections may require antibiotics and could be diagnosed with sinusitis.
Toothache or Gum Infections
An infection of the gum or tooth can cause excruciating pain. Whether the pain was caused by trauma to the mouth, an open wound, poor dental care, or even a genetic pre-disposition, suffering from a toothache can make life unbearable. When you aren’t sure if your pain is a toothache or a sinus issue, you can check for the following symptoms:
- Sensitivity to the touch. If you feel a sting of pain or sensitivity when you touch or put pressure on the tooth or gum, it is a sign that the infection is dental.
- Sudden onset. Sinus issues don’t typically start suddenly. If your pain just started, you should give your dentist a call.
- Bad breath. If you have an infection of the mouth, it will cause a foul odor and taste.
- Swollen lymph nodes. Sinuses may cause your cheeks to look inflamed, just like a toothache – which makes that a difficult way to tell the difference, but swollen lymph nodes underneath the jawline typically point to a tooth or gum infection.
When to See a Doctor
Consulting a primary care doctor for sinus issues is the best course of action for your nasal discomfort. If you have a toothache, however, we urge you to schedule an appointment with our excellent dentists at College Ave Modern Dental.
Infections in the mouth can become serious quickly, as the infection spreads quickly through the thin blood vessels in the gums. If you are experiencing a toothache with a fever, please call us right away. We offer emergency dental appointments and can get you treated right away.