My sinuses are making my teeth hurt

The roots of the upper premolars and molars lie close to the maxillary sinus. Pressure and inflammation in that sinus can be felt in several upper teeth even when those teeth are healthy. Sinus-related discomfort often accompanies blocked or runny nose, facial pressure, and pain that changes when bending forward.

A dental pulp problem usually centers on one tooth and may cause lingering hot or cold pain, spontaneous pain, pain on biting, or a localized gum swelling. Sinus pressure more often affects multiple upper teeth on one side. These patterns overlap, and a sinus infection can also occur alongside a dental infection, particularly when an upper tooth is involved.

Note which teeth hurt, whether nasal symptoms are present, and whether posture changes the pressure. Avoid repeatedly testing the teeth with extreme temperatures, and arrange dental assessment if pain persists or is localized. The dentist may perform percussion, bite and pulp tests, gum examination, and dental radiographs; a medical clinician may assess the nose and sinuses when dental findings are normal.

Seek prompt care for severe tooth pain, facial swelling, fever, pus, or symptoms that persist after respiratory symptoms improve. Emergency care is needed for eye swelling, vision changes, confusion, breathing difficulty, or rapidly spreading facial swelling. A tooth-related abscess needs dental treatment even if sinus congestion is also present.