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How to Relieve Jaw Pain from a Sinus Infection

Jaw pain is not always dental in origin. In fact, one often overlooked cause of discomfort in the upper jaw is a sinus infection. When your sinuses become inflamed or blocked, pressure can build in nearby areas, including the jaw, cheeks and upper teeth. This can cause a dull ache, sensitivity or even a throbbing pain that mimics toothache or joint problems.

Understanding the link between sinus infections and jaw pain can help you find the right relief and avoid unnecessary worry about dental or jaw disorders. Most cases of sinus-related jaw pain improve with the right treatment, self-care and time.

How Are Sinus Infections Linked to Jaw Pain?

Your sinuses are small, air-filled cavities located behind the cheeks, forehead, nose and eyes. The maxillary sinuses, found in the cheeks just above the upper jaw, are the most likely to cause jaw discomfort when inflamed.

When these sinuses become infected, often after a cold or due to allergies, they can swell and fill with mucus. This creates pressure in the surrounding facial tissues, which may push down on the upper jaw and even the roots of your back teeth. As a result, you may feel a deep ache in the jaw or around the cheeks, and it can sometimes feel as though the pain is coming from the teeth themselves.

What Does Sinus-Related Jaw Pain Feel Like?

Jaw pain from a sinus infection tends to feel dull, heavy or achy rather than sharp or localised. It often occurs alongside other symptoms of sinus congestion, including a blocked or runny nose, facial pressure, headache, postnasal drip or reduced sense of smell.

You might notice the pain is worse when bending forward or lying down, as gravity increases pressure in the sinuses. The jaw may also feel tender when touched, and chewing might be uncomfortable.

How to Relieve Jaw Pain Caused by a Sinus Infection

Relieving jaw pain from a sinus infection usually means treating the underlying sinus congestion and inflammation. Once the pressure in the sinuses reduces, the jaw discomfort often settles.

Warm compresses applied to the cheeks or jaw area can help ease sinus pressure and soothe aching muscles. A flannel soaked in warm water or a microwaveable heat pack placed on the face for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can help open the sinuses and reduce discomfort.

Steam inhalation is another effective way to ease congestion. You can do this by leaning over a bowl of hot (not boiling) water, covering your head with a towel and breathing in the steam for several minutes. Adding menthol or eucalyptus oil may help further loosen mucus, though this should be avoided if you have asthma or sensitive airways.

Nasal saline sprays or rinses, available from pharmacies, can help flush out the sinuses and reduce inflammation. These products gently clean the nasal passages, helping to relieve pressure and restore airflow. Always follow the instructions provided.

Over-the-counter decongestants, such as nasal sprays or tablets, may reduce swelling in the sinus passages and promote drainage. They can be useful for short-term relief but should not be used for more than a few days without medical advice, as prolonged use may worsen congestion.

Pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation and ease the discomfort in both the sinuses and jaw. If you are unsure which medicine is suitable for you, speak to a pharmacist.

Stay well hydrated, as this helps thin mucus and supports natural drainage from the sinuses. Drinking warm fluids such as herbal teas or broths can provide comfort and aid recovery.

When to See a GP

Most sinus infections clear within a week or two and can be managed at home. However, you should see a GP if:

• Symptoms last longer than 10 days or worsen after an initial improvement
• You have a high fever or swelling around the eyes or forehead
• The jaw pain becomes severe or spreads
• You have ongoing facial pain or pressure that does not improve
• There is any discharge from the nose that is green, yellow or foul-smelling for more than a few days

In some cases, your GP may prescribe a nasal corticosteroid spray or antibiotics, particularly if the infection is bacterial and not settling on its own. If sinus infections are frequent, further investigation may be needed to check for underlying issues such as nasal polyps or allergies.

Can It Be Mistaken for a Dental Problem?

Yes, sinus infections can sometimes be mistaken for toothache, especially in the upper back teeth. This is because the roots of these teeth sit close to the maxillary sinuses, and pressure or inflammation in the sinuses can trigger referred pain. If you’re unsure whether the pain is dental or sinus-related, it’s best to speak to a dentist or GP. A thorough examination can help rule out problems such as tooth abscesses, gum disease or temporomandibular joint issues.

Emotional Wellbeing and Discomfort

Persistent facial or jaw pain can leave you feeling run down, irritable or anxious, particularly if sleep is disrupted or you're unsure of the cause. Reassurance that the symptoms are temporary and treatable can help ease worry. If you're finding it hard to cope with the discomfort, don’t hesitate to seek support from a healthcare professional. With the right advice and care, symptoms can usually be managed quickly and effectively.

Final Thoughts

Jaw pain from a sinus infection can be uncomfortable but is usually harmless and short-lived. The pressure caused by inflamed or blocked sinuses can affect the jaw and upper teeth, leading to aches and soreness that may feel worrying at first. However, with rest, warmth, hydration and simple treatments, relief is often close at hand.

If symptoms do not improve or you're concerned about the nature of your pain, speak to your GP or dentist for further guidance. Prompt treatment and a calm approach can help restore comfort and peace of mind.