Can an Earache Cause Tooth Pain?
If you’re experiencing a toothache, it can be difficult to determine where the pain is coming from. You may assume that the problem lies in your teeth – and in many cases you would be correct! However, earaches are also associated with dental issues that can contribute to tooth pain. Understanding what might be causing your oral discomfort is key for choosing an effective treatment method. So, can an earache cause tooth pain?
Specific Causes of Dental Pain Related to Ear Infections
There are several causes of tooth pain related to ear infections. The most common include:
- The middle ear infection spreads inflammation to nearby parts of the head which may cause jaw or facial joint pain.
- Sinus infections (also called rhinosinusitis) can also trigger tooth pain, because the teeth on either side of your upper jaw line up with the sinuses. The inflammation in your sinuses is able to travel through these open canals and cause discomfort in your teeth.
- Referred pain from a middle ear infection may be felt as “tooth pain” even though it originates somewhere else.
Can an earache cause tooth pain? Now you know the answer!
Alternative Causes of Tooth Pain Related to Ear Infections
Ear infections are not always accompanied by dental problems or toothache – sometimes the earache is completely separate from any oral discomfort. However, you should still consult a doctor if you experience ear pain to determine what is causing it, whether it’s related to dental conditions or not. Other causes of toothache include:
- consistent exposure to cold temperatures – your teeth may freeze and cause pain;
- infected gums (or other infections) causing jaw or facial joint pain;
- increased tooth sensitivity due to exposure to high levels of glucose.
Other Symptoms and Dental Issues to Watch Out For
Dental problems can be subtle and coincide with other symptoms. If you are experiencing tooth pain and also notice the following, you should definitely consult a dentist to determine the cause of your discomfort:
- fever;
- pain in other parts of the head or face, such as your jaw, neck, and sinuses;
- headache;
- bad breath;
- swollen glands around the ear;
- gum disease;
- loss of appetite;
- weird sensation in the ears;
- irritated gums;
- grinding;
- cavities and tooth decay.
Toothache or Ear Pain: How to Tell the Difference
Can an earache cause tooth pain? Your ear infection can affect your teeth in more than one way – and the exact nature of your tooth pain can help you determine what is causing it. Know that a severe ear infection may cause referred pain, meaning that the painful symptoms will radiate from the ear to other parts of the head or face. If you notice dental discomfort without any connection to your earache, this might be a sign that there are other factors at play.
In order to get relief from your dental discomfort or treat an underlying problem causing it, consult with a dentist immediately. With proper diagnosis, treatment will be much more effective and less painful than ever before.
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- Can a Toothache Cause a Headache? The Link Between Oral and Cranial Pain
- Toothache, But the Dentist Says Nothing Wrong: What Could It Be And How to Treat It?
- How Long Until a Tooth Infection Kills You? How Infection Spreads
- Can a Tooth Infection Kill You? Read the Answer!
