Can Oral Problems Cause Sinus Problems?

Could there be a connection between oral problems and a sinus infection? If so, what is it? Sinusitis or an infection of the sinuses may correlate or co-occur with a toothache. Sometimes, an infected tooth affects the sinuses, and sometimes it is the other way around. 

Regardless of the causative relation, the problem can only be successfully addressed with the help of a healthcare professional who may also help you avoid developing a chronic infection.

Read on to find out what an oral surgeon with experience in performing emergency tooth extractions in Wildomar and the Temecula Valley area has to say about this painful topic!

What causes dental sinusitis and what are the symptoms?

Dental sinusitis occurs when a dental infection or issue spreads to the maxillary sinuses, located just above the upper teeth. The primary causes usually include:

• Tooth infections
• Tooth abscess
• Tooth decay
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Tooth extractions
• Dental implants or root canal treatments

And how do you know if a tooth is causing sinus problems? It can be tricky to tell, since the symptoms of dental and sinus issues often overlap. However, there are key signs that can help you identify whether a tooth is the root cause of your problems:

• Facial pain or pressure: Especially around the cheeks, under the eyes, or forehead, often concentrated on one side.
• Upper tooth or jaw pain: Often mistaken for a regular toothache, the pain is usually felt in the upper molars or premolars.
• Nasal congestion: One-sided nasal blockage or stuffiness.
• Post-nasal drip: A feeling of mucus draining from the back of the nose into the throat.
• Discolored nasal discharge: Yellow or green mucus, typically from one nostril.
• Foul taste or bad breath: Persistent bad taste or smell in the mouth due to the infection.
• Swelling: Swelling of the face, gums, or cheeks may occur in more severe cases.
• Ear pressure or discomfort: Sinus pressure can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears.
• Fever: Rare, but may occur in more severe or prolonged infections.
• Difficulty chewing: Pain when biting down due to the proximity of the teeth to the infected sinus.

In case dental sinus infection symptoms persist, it’s important to consult both a dentist and an ENT specialist. 

Can tooth abscess drain into sinuses?

First of all, what is a dental abscess? A tooth abscess is a collection or a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, which is, in turn, usually caused by trauma or untreated dental cavities in the pulp. The abscess is normally found at the root of the tooth or within the gum or bone tissue surrounding the affected tooth. 

A dental abscess can be the root cause of sinusitis and/or headaches. These symptoms are the key indicators that a root canal intervention or a tooth extraction may be necessary. If you suspect a dental abscess, seek attention from a dental professional immediately. Consulting an oral surgeon may be the most straightforward way to put the situation under control. 

Untreated abscesses may also lead to:

• Tooth pain
• Gum pain
• Sinus infection

So what is the connection between an abscessed tooth and a sinus infection? The infection from a tooth abscess can simply spread to the sinus cavity. 

Can poor oral hygiene cause sinusitis?

Poor oral hygiene can cause a range of health issues that vary in severity. So the answer is yes, a sinus infection caused by inadequate oral hygiene is indeed a plausible scenario. 

If a patient suffers from a severe infection of the teeth and/or gums, the infection can travel to the sinuses. How come? The answer lies in the human anatomy. 

Namely, this is because of how thin the bone separating the root of the molars and the maxillary sinuses is. An untreated tooth or gum abscess can cause serious long-term damage, which is why it is imperative to seek advice from an oral surgeon as soon as symptoms arise. 

Odontogenic sinusitis

Odontogenic sinusitis is a type of sinus infection that starts with dental problems. Research suggests that about 10–12% of chronic sinusitis cases are linked to dental issues, making it a common, but often overlooked, cause.

• Common dental triggers include: untreated cavities, abscesses, advanced gum disease, oral cysts, and even upper jaw dental procedures (like extractions or implants) that allow bacteria to enter the sinus cavity.
• Typical symptoms: The infection usually affects one side and may cause facial pressure, congestion, a foul taste or odor in the mouth, and sometimes toothache or gum swelling on the same side.
• Treatment: Effective care requires treating both the dental issue and the sinus infection. For example, an abscessed tooth may need a root canal or extraction, while the sinus infection is managed with antibiotics or, in some cases, drainage.
• Prevention: The best protection comes from consistent oral care—regular dental checkups, prompt treatment of tooth decay or gum disease, and strong daily hygiene habits.

Can a dentist tell if you have a sinus infection?

A dental professional can see if your sinusitis may be caused by a maxillary dental infection, which is a dental infection in the upper jawbone. Oral surgeons typically rely on panoramic imaging when examining patients and this allows them to see all the important structures, including the sinus cavities of the maxilla, which is the upper jawbone. This helps the doctor make an accurate evaluation and diagnosis so they can help patients make informed decisions.

How long does a sinus toothache last?

A toothache co-occurring with a sinus condition can last a considerable amount of time, between seven to 10 days, at which point the symptoms may clear up. This may not sound like an overly long period of time, however, some patients endure intense pain as a result of the combined infection. 

Of course, other factors may contribute to toothache or sinusitis, so a patient in this situation should definitely see a general dentist or oral surgeon for consultation and, if necessary, treatment.

Oral hygiene and sinus health: Prevention tips

Since oral health and sinus health are closely connected, prevention makes all the difference.

• Build daily habits: Brush twice a day, floss once daily, and use an antiseptic rinse or water flosser for extra protection.
• Keep up with dental visits: Professional cleanings and checkups every six months can catch problems before they turn serious.
• Watch your lifestyle: Stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and manage allergies to lower your risk of sinus infections.
• Know when to act: If you notice one-sided sinus pressure along with tooth pain or gum swelling, it could be a sign of odontogenic sinusitis—time to see a professional.

Can sinus problems cause oral issues? (The reverse connection)

It’s not just dental problems that can impact the sinuses—the connection works both ways. The maxillary sinuses sit just above the roots of the upper molars and premolars, and when they become inflamed from allergies, colds, or infections, the resulting pressure can press on dental nerves. The outcome? Pain that feels a lot like a toothache.

How sinus pressure mimics tooth pain

Unlike the sharp, localized pain of a true dental problem, sinus-related discomfort is often described as a dull, pressure-like ache that spreads across several teeth instead of just one. The pain can get worse with movement, especially when bending forward or jumping, because sinus pressure shifts along with your body.

Signs it’s sinus-related, not dental:

• Pain in several upper back teeth rather than one
• Accompanying sinus symptoms like congestion, facial pressure, or nasal discharge
• Pain that worsens with head movement
• A dull ache instead of a sharp, stabbing sensation

When to see a dentist vs. an ENT

Sometimes sinus and dental problems overlap, and in those cases, you may need to see both a dentist and an ENT. Dentists often perform a percussion test, gently tapping on the teeth, to help tell the difference. A sinus-related toothache usually affects several teeth at once, while a true dental toothache is typically limited to a single tooth.

Temporary relief while waiting for care

While you’re waiting for an appointment, a few simple steps can help ease the discomfort: stay hydrated, try steam inhalation or saline nasal rinses, and use over-the-counter decongestants if needed. Just keep in mind these are short-term fixes, lasting relief depends on proper professional treatment.

Tooth extractions and sinus complications

When upper teeth, especially molars and premolars, are extracted, there’s a small chance that an opening forms between the mouth and the sinus. This is called sinus communication. It’s not common, and when it does happen it’s usually minor, but it can occur because the roots of upper teeth sit so close to the sinus cavity.

Possible warning signs include:

• Air or fluid moving between the mouth and nose
• A whistling sound while breathing
• Fluid leaking from the nose when drinking
• Ongoing congestion or sinus pressure after the extraction

What to do: Small openings often heal on their own with a few simple precautions—avoid blowing your nose, forceful sneezing, or drinking through straws. If the opening is larger or doesn’t close on its own, treatment may involve sutures, a collagen plug, or, in some cases, surgical repair.

How surgeons help prevent it: Skilled oral surgeons rely on advanced imaging and gentle techniques to greatly reduce the risk of these complications.

Can a root canal cause a sinus infection?

A properly done root canal does not directly cause a sinus infection. However, because the roots of upper teeth sit very close to the sinus cavity, there can occasionally be some overlap in symptoms or complications.

Sinus communication during a root canal: In rare cases, filling material can extend slightly beyond the root into the sinus. This may cause temporary issues like mild pressure or post-nasal drip, but these symptoms usually heal on their own.

When a true sinus infection develops: Most often, it isn’t the root canal itself but an existing dental infection that has already spread to the sinus—or a root canal that wasn’t fully effective.

What to do: If sinus-like symptoms continue after treatment, it’s important to see both your dentist and your doctor. Imaging can help confirm whether the root canal is complete, and antibiotics may be needed if the sinus is involved.

Sinus lift surgery and dental implants

When patients need implants in the upper jaw, the bone in that area isn’t always thick enough to hold them securely. In these cases, a sinus lift (also called sinus augmentation) is a common procedure that builds up the bone beneath the sinus.

1. Why it’s done: The extra bone prevents implants from pushing into the sinus cavity and provides a strong, stable foundation.
2. How it works: The surgeon carefully lifts the sinus membrane and places bone graft material in the space.
3. Recovery: Most people experience only mild pressure afterward and heal smoothly with the right aftercare.
4. Success rate: When performed by an experienced oral surgeon, sinus lifts have a very high success rate, allowing dental implants to be placed safely and effectively even near the sinus.

How to fix dental sinusitis?

Resolving dental sinusitis involves removing the affected tooth, taking antibiotics, and sometimes sinus surgery. When properly managed, about 95% of cases are successfully treated, as long as both the tooth and sinus problems are addressed together. To prevent future problems, it’s important to maintain regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene. Keeping an eye on sinus symptoms after treatment is also key to ensuring the infection doesn’t come back.

Safe and comfortable emergency tooth extractions in Wildomar and the region

A tooth infection can get out of hand. Evidence suggests oral health problems, specifically in the molars and premolars, may be directly associated with sinus infections. So as tempting it may sound to have an infected tooth treated and salvaged, sometimes this is simply not the safest route to take. 

It is often in your best interest to have the infected tooth removed altogether, as this can save you time and money, not to mention spare you the unnecessary stress, hassle, and discomfort from potential complications which can arise and escalate rapidly.

Find out why patients from Wildomar and other communities in the Temecula Valley region come to us. Call now!