Can a Tooth Extraction Cause a Sinus Infection?

Dental extractions can cause sinuses to become infected, which is why it is so important to follow a strictly planned aftercare protocol. Sinus infections can co-occur with oral problems, and oral problems can lead to sinus problems. Although tooth extractions are performed to eliminate a problem, they still cause discomfort. The body perceives all invasive procedures that cause trauma the same way and needs time to recover. 

Is sinus pressure normal after tooth extraction?

Tooth extractions can be unavoidable. Having a tooth removed may be the only reliable way to eliminate risks to a person’s oral, dental and general health. But however expertly performed, both standard and surgical tooth extractions are still invasive interventions. Post-surgical effects may include: 

• Pain
• Swelling
• Inflammation
• Bruising
• Bleeding
• Infections. 

All these symptoms will subside with time, but not all patients will make progress toward full recovery at the same rate. 

 

Once the pain relief medication begins to wear off, you may become drowsy. This is your body’s way of signaling you to get plenty of bedrest and allow it time to heal. If you are experiencing any discomfort in the aftermath of your dental extraction procedure, you can take over-the-counter painkillers. 

How do you relieve sinus pressure after tooth extraction?

When a patient has an infection or cavity in a maxillary molar, which are molars located in the upper jawbone, these teeth may need to be extracted. Molars are the flat teeth located at the back of the mouth and originally intended for chewing food. 

Wisdom teeth or the third molars are no longer of any use to us, and they often carry the risk of complications due to being difficult to reach and keep clean, which is why they are often removed whether due to improper growth, decay, insufficient space in the mouth, or a combination of factors. 

In other words, wisdom teeth are more likely to be extracted than other molars. However, this can have a direct impact on the sinuses and cause an infection, due to the close proximity of these upper teeth and the sinus cavities. 

How long does it take for sinus to heal after tooth extraction?

The healing of the sinus opening should go smoothly within 2 to 4 weeks following the dental extraction. But if there is an impediment to the recovery and healing process, the patient may need to explore viable surgical or alternative treatment options.

Will an exposed sinus heal on its own?

When you are having your upper molars extracted, there is a risk of sinus exposure. This complication can happen when a hole opens into the maxillary sinus. Although the likelihood of this happening is low, if it does happen, repair work needs to be done. 

In order to avoid and reduce the risk of sinus exposure, an oral surgeon will take a look at the patient’s dental X-ray, enabling them to pinpoint the exact location of this and other important anatomical structures and avoid them during the actual intervention.

Emergency dental extractions in Wildomar and nearby areas

Dr. Tsvetov has handled a variety of complex cases throughout his rich career. Regardless of the degree of complexity of a surgical intervention patients in Wildomar and other parts of Riverside County may require, they can rest assured that you are in good hands. If you are in pain or enduring any kind of discomfort, rest assured that we have the solution. Contact us and let us guide you through the evaluation, treatment and aftercare protocol and toward recovery!