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. 

In some cases, an emergency dental extraction may be needed to relieve intense pain or stop the spread of infection. These situations often involve upper molars, which sit close to the sinus cavities and can increase the risk of sinus-related complications. That’s why it’s especially important to follow proper aftercare. The good news is, if you’re in Wildomar, experienced dental professionals are available to handle urgent extractions with precision and care, helping reduce the chances of post-procedure issues like sinus infections.

How are sinuses affected by tooth extraction?

Unfortunately, sinus pain and pressure after wisdom teeth removal are not uncommon, particularly if the extraction involves upper back teeth, which are located near the maxillary sinuses. The roots of these teeth are often close to or extend into the sinus cavity. When a tooth is extracted, particularly if it’s a large tooth or the roots are long, there is a risk of creating a small opening between the mouth and the sinus, called a sinus communication or sinus perforation. In most instances, it heals naturally, but if it’s larger or fails to heal, it can lead to complications like sinus infections, requiring possible surgical correction.

Why are maxillary sinuses important in dental procedures?

Understanding maxillary sinus anatomy is a key to seeing why upper molar and premolar extractions can sometimes lead to sinus infections. These sinuses are air-filled spaces found behind the cheekbones and just above the upper teeth. For some people, the roots of the back upper teeth are separated from the sinus floor by only a very thin layer of bone — or sometimes, none at all.

When a tooth is removed, especially a second molar or wisdom tooth, this delicate barrier can be disturbed or even broken. If that happens, bacteria from the mouth can get into the sinus, potentially causing an infection. This type of sinus infection is known as odontogenic sinusitis, meaning it starts from a dental issue.

Because of this close connection between the mouth and sinus, delayed healing or poor oral hygiene after an extraction can raise the risk of infection. To accurately diagnose and assess how much of the sinus is affected, advanced imaging like a cone beam CT scan is often needed to guide the right treatment.

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 to tell if your tooth extraction is causing your sinus problem?

Not all discomfort after an upper tooth extraction is abnormal. However, being able to distinguish between typical post-operative pain and signs of a sinus infection is vital for timely treatment. Many patients wonder if pulling a tooth causes sinus problems, and when it comes to upper molars located near the sinus cavities, the answer is yes.

Symptoms of a sinus infection related to a dental extraction might include:

• Persistent facial pain or pressure, especially around the cheeks or under the eyes
• Nasal discharge that is yellow or green, indicating infection
• Post-nasal drip with a bad taste or odor
• Reduced sense of smell or congestion
• Swelling in the cheek or around the eye
• Fever or general malaise in more severe cases

These symptoms usually begin a few days after the procedure, once the initial swelling subsides and the bacterial infection begins to develop. If any of these signs are present, it’s essential to consult a dental or ENT specialist. Early intervention, often with antibiotics and sinus rinses, can prevent more invasive treatments such as surgical closure of a sinus opening.

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. In case you notice sinus and eye pain long after tooth extraction, or symptoms like blocked ear, sore throat, or bad breath don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for a check-up.

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.

What are the precautions for sinuses after tooth extraction?

Here are some key guidelines:

• Avoid blowing your nose: Blowing your nose can increase pressure in your sinus cavity, which might cause or worsen a sinus communication (an opening between the mouth and the sinus). If you need to sneeze, try to do so with your mouth open to reduce pressure.
• Do not use straws: Using a straw can create negative pressure in the mouth, which may disturb the blood clot in the extraction site and interfere with the healing of any sinus involvement.
• Limit physical exertion: Strenuous activities or heavy lifting can increase pressure in your sinuses and the extraction site. Avoid these activities for at least a few days after the procedure to allow proper healing.
• Avoid smoking or vaping: Smoking can delay healing, increase the risk of infection, and cause dry socket, which can complicate healing further. Avoid smoking for at least 48-72 hours after the procedure, or longer if possible.

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!