Can a Root Canal Cause a Sinus Infection?

If you’ve recently gotten a root canal, and are now experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, you may want to know if the two are connected.

Maybe you’ve looked online for answers and discovered lots of other people have seemingly developed a sinus infection after a root canal.

Well, the truth is a bit complicated. Root canals don’t cause a sinus infection, but it is possible to develop it after getting this procedure.

Here’s what’s really going on.

The “Link” Between Root Canals and Sinus Infections

If you need a root canal in Fox Point, is it possible to experience the symptoms of a sinus infection for two reasons:

1. The Infection Spread

The roots of your upper teeth are really close to your sinuses. In some cases, very severe infections can spread from your teeth to surrounding tissues, including the sinuses.

As a result, the sinus infection is a complication of the tooth infection and not the root canal. It’s possible the sinus infection didn’t show any symptoms until after you treated the tooth, which is why it’s easy to think the root canal caused it.

If you’re dealing with a sinus infection, you’ll need to see your family doctor for the appropriate treatment, which may include oral antibiotics.

2. It’s Not Actually an Infection

A root canal is a major dental procedure, which involves cleaning the tooth of all traces of bacteria and infected tissue. Using special tools, the dentist will clean the inside of the tooth, including the very narrow chambers of the root.

This can lead to some minor irritation, which may present with sinus infection-like symptoms like a runny nose or congestion. This is called “sinus communication”, and it’s caused by a slightly damaged sinus lining.

However, the irritation can heal after a few days on its own, unlike a sinus infection which will linger for longer.

When Should I See a Dentist for Sinus Communication?

If your sinus communication symptoms persist, it could be because of larger holes in the sinus lining, which may need more help healing.

You should reach out to your dentist for a follow-up appointment if your discomfort persists for more than a week.

Moreover, the symptoms might also be worsened by a failed root canal, in which your dentist wasn’t able to remove all the infected tissue. Apart from sinus pain, you'll also experience tooth swelling and high levels of pain.

Dealing with a Tooth Infection? Reach out Today

A tooth infection is a common dental emergency that requires immediate attention. Dr. Major and Dr. Krenzke are here to help you access swift root canal treatment that can heal your discomfort and restore your oral health.

Call us at (414) 236-5885 right away for emergency dental care.

If you need a regular appointment, you can request a visit online.