It might not be your teeth at all. This time of year, I often think about sinus pressure, especially if I can’t find an obvious dental cause. The roots of your upper back teeth sit very close to your sinus cavity—sometimes even extending into it. The nerves that supply those teeth also run along the sinus floor. When pressure builds up, it can press on those nerves and feel like a toothache.
Clues it could be sinus-related include pain that’s hard to pinpoint to one tooth, discomfort that worsens when lying down or bending over, and other sinus symptoms like congestion or pressure.
Teeth clenching is another possibility, especially during times of stress.
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to have your dentist take a look. As we head into spring in Nanaimo, don’t forget—sometimes it’s the pollen, not your teeth!
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Every mouth is different, so the best answer for you comes from an exam and a conversation with your dental team.
