If you’re experiencing jaw pain or discomfort in your back teeth, the cause might not be straightforward. For many in El Paso, jaw pain may be linked to either a sinus infection or a TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint disorder). These two conditions share several overlapping symptoms:
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Tooth pain or toothache
- Neck pain
- Ringing in the ears
At Mesa Street Dental, right near UTEP in west El Paso, we help patients pinpoint the root of their discomfort so they can get the right treatment – whether it’s sinus-related or requires TMJ treatment in El Paso.
What is a Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, affects the hollow cavities around your nose and eyes. In El Paso’s dry desert climate, sinus tissues are often triggered by seasonal allergies or dust. When sinuses get blocked, they can swell, become infected, and lead to pressure and pain that radiates to your upper jaw and teeth.
Common signs of sinus-related jaw pain can include:
- A runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Loss of smell
- Facial pressure
- Fever
If you’re searching for a dentist near El Paso to help with tooth pain from sinus pressure, we can help assess your symptoms and determine the right next steps.
Can a Sinus Infection Cause Tooth or Jaw Pain?
Yes, especially the upper back teeth. When the sinuses swell, they can press on nearby dental nerves, mimicking a toothache. If you’re in El Paso’s Kern Place or Sunset Heights area, treating the sinus infection can often relieve the dental discomfort without the need for dental procedures.
How to Treat Sinusitis Tooth and Jaw Pain
While mild cases can improve with home care, chronic sinus issues should be evaluated by a physician. In the meantime, here are some self-care strategies that may help:
- Use a vaporizer or the steam from a bowl of warm water to moisten your nasal passages
- Use warm compresses against your sinuses
- Try saline nose drops or other decongestants recommended for sinusitis
- Drink plenty of water or fluids
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom
- Add an extra pillow at night to keep your head tilted at a better angle for your congestion
If pain persists, we recommend a visit to both your primary care provider and your El Paso dentist for a full evaluation.
What is a TMJ Disorder / TMD?
If you do not have the symptoms relating to sinusitis, it may be that a temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMJ disorder or TMD, is the source of your jaw pain. Your temporomandibular joints attach the sides of your jawbone to your skull, and if they get out of line, which can happen for a variety of reasons, jaw and dental pain can occur.
Symptoms that point to TMD rather than sinusitis include:
- Pain or clicking in the jaw joint
- Discomfort while chewing
- Locking or stiffness of the jaw
- Pain around the ears
- Facial tension or a noticeable change in bite
Patients in West El Paso or nearby neighborhoods like Mission Hills often come to us seeking relief from TMJ symptoms that disrupt daily life.
TMJ Treatment in El Paso: How to Find Relief
At Mesa Street Dental, we offer non-surgical TMJ treatments tailored to your needs. Many mild to moderate cases can be managed with simple lifestyle changes and targeted care:
- Jaw relaxation and stretching exercises
- Anti-inflammatory or pain relief medications
- Eating soft foods
- Avoiding gum, nail-biting, or resting your chin in your hand
- Stress management
- Custom nightguards for bruxism
Severe TMJ cases may require advanced care, but most El Paso patients find lasting relief with conservative treatment.
If you’re unsure whether your jaw pain is due to sinus pressure or a TMJ disorder, the team at Mesa Street Dental is here to help you find answers. We’re conveniently located on Mesa Street and proudly serve patients across El Paso, Kern Place, UTEP, and the surrounding west side. Call us today!