Book Book Online Now Forms Download our Forms Like Us Like Us on Facebook Reviews Read Our Google Reviews Call Give us a Call Map View our Map
2579 John Milton Dr, Herndon, VA 20171 • Conveniently Located in Fox Mill Center
(703) 860-8860

Premier Dental Care Blog

Toothache or Sinus Problem? Learn the Difference and Spot the Symptoms

April 29, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 7:21 pm
Woman blowing nose

Few things are more frustrating than facial pain—especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it. If you’re feeling pressure or aching around your upper back teeth, you might assume it’s a dental issue.

But did you know that sinus infections often mimic the symptoms of a toothache? Understanding the difference between the two can help you decide whether to call your dentist or wait it out with home care.

Here’s how to tell the difference between a true toothache and sinus pressure.

Why Sinus Problems Can Feel Like Toothaches

    Your maxillary sinuses are located just above your upper molars, separated only by a thin wall of bone. When these sinuses become inflamed due to allergies, a cold, or a sinus infection, the swelling and pressure can press down on the roots of your upper teeth. As a result, you may feel a dull, aching pain that seems to come from the teeth, even though the source is actually in your sinuses.

    Symptoms of a Sinus-Related Toothache

      If your tooth pain is caused by sinus pressure, it will typically:

      • Be felt in several upper back teeth, not just one
      • Worsen when you bend over or move your head quickly
      • Be accompanied by sinus congestion, facial tenderness, or post-nasal drip
      • Improve with decongestants, nasal sprays, or other sinus treatments

      In most cases, sinus-related tooth pain is dull and diffuse rather than sharp and localized.

      Signs of a True Toothache

        On the other hand, a genuine toothache caused by decay, infection, or trauma often feels different. You may notice:

        • Pain that’s sharp, stabbing, or throbbing
        • Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
        • Swelling or redness around the affected tooth or gums
        • Pain that doesn’t improve with sinus treatments

        If your discomfort is isolated to a single tooth and persists regardless of changes in sinus pressure, it’s time to contact your dentist.

        When to See a Dentist

          It’s not always easy to tell the difference between a sinus infection and a dental issue, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. If the pain lasts longer than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, you should reach out to a provider of emergency dentistry in Herndon. A dentist can perform an exam, take x-rays if needed, and determine whether the pain is coming from your tooth or your sinuses.

          In some cases, your dentist may refer you to a primary care doctor or ENT specialist if they suspect the issue is sinus-related.

          If your tooth pain doesn’t improve—or gets worse—it’s time to take action and get the relief you need.

          About the Practice

            Premier Dental Care proudly serves Herndon families with high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Bakhtyari and the team offer a full range of dental services, including emergency dentistry, in a modern and welcoming environment. With a focus on personalized treatment and comfort, Premier Dental Care is here to help you get out of pain and back to smiling confidently.

            Call us at (703) 860-8860 or request an appointment online.

            Mouth Matters: Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are More Important Than You Think

            March 28, 2025

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 7:12 pm
            Patient getting an oral cancer screening

            While most people visit the dentist for cleanings or the occasional cavity, few realize that these appointments also offer a chance to perform other important tasks. One of the most unsung of these is screening for oral cancer, a potentially life-threatening condition that can spread unnoticed. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s time to highlight oral cancer as the serious health issue it is and teach patients why screenings matter.

            (more…)

            Smile Makeovers: How Your Dentist Can Help You Achieve Your Smile Goals

            February 8, 2025

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 5:13 pm
            a patient smiling and giving a thumbs up at the dental office

            If you’d like to drastically alter the appearance of your smile, but you’re dealing with multiple flaws in multiple teeth, there’s perhaps no better answer than a smile makeover. This treatment process combines and streamlines various cosmetic (and sometimes restorative) procedures to give a dull, damaged smile a second lease on life. However, you might be wondering just what elements of your smile your dentist is planning to focus on when carrying out this treatment plan. Here’s a closer look!

            (more…)

            Why You Need a Healthy Smile Before Undergoing Cosmetic Dentistry

            February 4, 2025

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 3:21 pm
            a patient admiring their smile in a mirror

            Have you always dreamed of having a brighter, more attractive smile? You don’t have to be a movie star or celebrity to achieve a picture-perfect grin; you just have to visit your cosmetic dentist! However, before they can approve you for some of these confidence-inspiring elective treatments, they’ll want to ensure that your smile is healthy. Continue reading below to learn a little more about cosmetic dentistry and why it’s in your best interest to make sure your smile is problem-free before kicking off its transformation!

            (more…)

            5 Ways You Can Improve the Appearance of Your Smile

            January 24, 2025

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 1:22 pm
            Close-up of woman in white shirt smiling

            A great smile can do wonders for your confidence and your ability to make a first impression. However, you may not be completely happy with what you see when you check your teeth in the mirror. Fortunately, thanks to cosmetic dentistry, there are plenty of ways for you to enhance the overall appearance of your smile; below are just 5 examples that may be worth considering.  

            (more…)

            3 Must-Know Tips for Finding the Perfect Dentist for Your Smile Makeover

            January 4, 2025

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 1:11 am
            a patient during their cosmetic dental consultation

            A beautiful, confident smile can make a lasting impression and open up several doors to opportunities, and a smile makeover is the secret to achieving the look you’ve always wanted. That said, no matter what sort of cosmetic services you desire, it’s all about the execution, and you’re going to want the best possible person to perform these treatments to refresh your grin. Here’s what you need to know about finding the perfect cosmetic dentist to perform your smile makeover.

            (more…)

            Preventing Menu Mishaps: Foods You Should Avoid with Dentures

            December 19, 2024

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 3:24 pm
            A woman shopping for groceries

            Dentures are an excellent solution for replacing lost permanent teeth, but even though they restore the look and feel of your smile, there are still a few foods you should avoid when you wear them. That’s because unlike implant dentures or your natural teeth, dentures cannot always hold up to the rigors of chewing certain foods, especially as you’re getting used to wearing them.

            Here are a few things you shouldn’t eat with your dentures when you first get them, and a few that you should skip no matter how long you’ve had them.

            (more…)

            6 Factors You Should Bring Up at Your Next Dental Visit

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 12:42 am
            Woman at the dentist

            The mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. Ultimately, your dental health and general health are closely related and say a lot about each other. That’s why going over your health history and medications is so important during your dental visits. Here are some health factors that you should let your dentist know about at your next appointment if you haven’t already.

            (more…)

            Hereditary Health: Is Gum Disease Genetic?

            November 30, 2024

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 6:42 pm
            Horizontal double helix with black background

            Did you know that gum disease is the #1 leading cause of tooth loss in adults? Gingivitis, the earliest stage, starts small and often goes unnoticed, leading to progressively worsening issues. Eventually, your connective tissues start to recede from your enamel to escape the infection, leaving your teeth without a strong enough foundation to remain in place.

            You may already know that brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily is essential to preventing periodontal problems, but were you aware that heredity also plays a part? Continue reading to learn more about it!

            (more…)

            Royal Recovery: Healing from Getting a Dental Crown

            November 22, 2024

            Filed under: Uncategorized — premierdental @ 5:31 pm
            Crown over flat model tooth on light teal background

            You’ll likely be fitted with a dental crown if you have an overly damaged tooth or recently underwent a root canal procedure. These tooth-shaped caps are made from resilient ceramic or resin that are customized to match the size and shade of your natural teeth. Then, they’re bonded over the injured tooth to shield it from harm while restoring its appearance and functionality.

            These prosthetics are used to safeguard your smile, but many patients worry about recovering from this procedure because they’re worried it could hurt. Continue reading to learn more about 3 things to expect after your appointment to set your mind at ease!

            (more…)
            Older Posts »