Earaches and toothaches are common problems that many people experience at some point. And sometimes, it can be hard to tell which one you’re dealing with! Pain can be tricky, and it’s not always obvious where it’s coming from.
If you’re dealing with pain in your face, mouth, or ear, this article will walk you through the common causes of toothaches and earaches, how to tell the difference between them, and what treatments can help you feel better.
Pinpointing the source: Ear infection or toothache?
Wondering whether your pain is coming from your ear or your tooth? Here’s how to tell the difference:
Ear infections (acute otitis media)
Acute otitis media is a middle ear infection that’s particularly common in children between the ages of 6 months and 8 years. These infections are often preceded by a cold or other upper respiratory infection.
Tooth pain
Tooth pain can come from a number of sources, including cavities, cracked teeth, teeth grinding (bruxism), gum disease, or damaged fillings or crowns.
One of the keys to figuring out whether it’s your ear or your tooth that’s hurting is to pinpoint the exact location of the pain.
Symptoms: What Are You Feeling?
The symptoms of an ear infection and a toothache can be similar. Here’s a quick guide to help you narrow down the possibilities.
Symptoms of Ear Infections
If you have an ear infection, you might experience:
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Difficulty hearing
- Fluid drainage from the ear
Symptoms of Toothaches
If you have a toothache, you might have:
- Sharp, throbbing, or constant pain in or around a tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling around the tooth
The pain of a toothache can sometimes spread to other areas, like your jaw, ear, or head. So, even if you’re feeling pain in your ear, the source of the problem could be your teeth.
Diagnosis: How Professionals Determine the Cause
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, ear pain, or both, your healthcare provider will perform tests to determine the source of your discomfort.
Diagnosing Ear Infections
Typically, your doctor will perform a physical exam and use an otoscope to diagnose an ear infection. An otoscope is a lighted tool that lets the doctor see your eardrum and check for signs of infection.
Diagnosing Tooth Pain
If you visit a dentist for tooth pain, they’ll likely perform a physical exam and take X-rays to determine the cause. X-rays are a vital tool for dentists, as they help them identify cavities, impacted teeth, and other dental issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Treatment Options for Ear Infections and Toothaches
Both ear infections and toothaches can be uncomfortable, but luckily, effective treatments are available.
Treating Ear Infections
Many ear infections clear up on their own, so your doctor may recommend a “wait and see” approach. However, if the infection is severe or persistent, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the bacteria causing the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage the discomfort.
For children (or adults) who experience recurring ear infections, ear tubes might be an option. These small tubes are surgically inserted into the eardrum to help drain fluid and prevent future infections.
Treating Toothaches
Sometimes, a toothache can be eased with home remedies. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) or applying a cold compress to your cheek can provide temporary relief.
However, if the pain persists or is severe, it’s crucial to seek professional dental treatment. Depending on the cause of the toothache, a dentist may recommend fillings, root canals, extractions, or other dental procedures to address the underlying problem.
Other Causes of Earaches and Toothaches
Sometimes, pain in your ears or teeth may have nothing to do with your ears or teeth. Several conditions can cause pain that seems to originate in those locations:
- Sinus infections: These cause pressure and pain around your face.
- TMJ disorders: These affect the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: This causes intense, stabbing facial pain.
- Visceral toothache: This is tooth pain without an obvious dental cause.
- Neurovascular orofacial pain: This involves blood vessels and nerves in the face.
In Summary
If you’re experiencing a toothache or an earache that doesn’t go away, it’s important to get help from a healthcare professional as soon as possible so they can diagnose the cause of the pain and provide effective treatment.
Understanding the differences in the symptoms, causes, and treatments of toothaches and earaches can help you make informed decisions about your health.