Tooth Pain & Sinusitis – ( Mis Diagnosis ) Chapter-2

by Denticare
Updated: 06 November, 2025
Tooth Ache

One of most important part of medical treatment is making a correct diagnosis. Improper diagnosis will lead to wrong treatment which results no relief for the patient from the illness

Golden Rules of Diagnosis

Asking thorough history and nature of the primary complaint
Duration of illness or pain
Reliving or aggravating factors
Physical examination of the patient
Necessary radiographic or other tests

After analysing all the above factors diagnosis is made , and based on the diagnosis treatment is planned .

Mis-diagnosis of Sinusitis and Tooth Ache

Failing to ask relevant history of the problem could lead to wrong treatment. One such issue can between sinusitis and Upper jaw molar teeth pain .

What is Sinusitis?

Sinuses are the air filled cavities in our skull. Inflammation or infection of these cavities can be termed as sinusitis . There are 4 major sinuses in our skull .

Maxillary Sinus

Our focus here on the maxillary sinus which is the closest sinus to the upper jaw back teeth . Lower border of the maxillary sinus and roof of the upper jaw molars is separated by only a thin wall of bone or in some areas just soft tissue .Because of this close anatomical relationship between maxillary molar teeth( Upper jaw back teeth ) and maxillary sinus , infection of teeth can show symptoms of sinus pain , cheek pain , headache and ear pain. Likewise the inflammation of the sinus can reflect as tooth ache .

Upper jaw teeth root tip just below the sinus wall

What is the message here

do not self medicate in any circumstances
if you have recent cold ,sinusitis , it can mimic tooth ache
on the other hand if you are experiencing frequent sinus problem it could be due to tooth infection as well , ask your ENT doctor for dentist referral

Frequently Asked Questions

Tooth pain from sinus pressure occurs when swollen sinus cavities press against the upper tooth roots. Relief starts with reducing sinus inflammation. Steam inhalation, warm compresses, saline nasal rinses, and staying hydrated help open the sinuses. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants can reduce pressure temporarily. If allergies trigger the issue, antihistamines may help. Elevating your head while sleeping improves drainage. Persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a dentist or ENT specialist to rule out an actual tooth infection or misdiagnosis.

Treating sinus infection during pregnancy focuses on safe, non-medicated methods first. Steam inhalation, saline sprays, warm compresses, and proper hydration help clear mucus safely. A humidifier at night reduces congestion. Some medications may be allowed in pregnancy, but only under a doctor’s guidance—never self-medicate. Acetaminophen is generally preferred for pain relief, but antibiotics are prescribed only if a bacterial infection is confirmed. If symptoms worsen, include fever or severe facial pain, seek medical evaluation to prevent complications for mother and baby.

Yes, sinusitis can cause nausea. When the sinuses are inflamed, excess mucus often drains into the throat and stomach, leading to irritation that triggers nausea or even loss of appetite. Constant postnasal drip can also cause coughing, which further upsets the stomach. Additionally, sinus pressure and headaches may contribute to a general feeling of sickness. If nausea becomes severe, persists beyond the sinus episode, or is accompanied by vomiting or dizziness, medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other underlying causes.