Can A Root Canal Cause A Sinus Infection?

If you’ve had a root canal at Parklane Family Dentistry or another dental practice in the Frisco area and are now noticing symptoms of a sinus infection, you might be confused.

Can a root canal lead to a sinus infection? If you search for answers online, other people may claim the same thing happened to them.

And it’s true: a root canal can cause symptoms similar to those of a sinus infection. But it doesn’t cause one.

Why Does a Root Canal Lead to Sinusitis-Like Symptoms?

Root canals are a type of procedure used to treat a badly infected tooth. During it, a dentist will clean the tooth of all bacteria and infected tissue, including anything that went down the narrow chambers of the root, which are called the canals.

If your root canal was performed on one of your upper teeth, then the procedure may cause symptoms like congestion or a runny nose. But it’s not a sinus infection. 

The canals of the tooth are very narrow. During the procedure, a dentist will use special tools to gain access to these chambers and remove the infection. But sometimes they can accidentally puncture the sinus lining, leading to a condition called “sinus communication”.

Is Sinus Communication Serious? 

Not at all. Most of the time, the sinus lining will heal on its own in a few days, and your symptoms will go away completely. To help it heal, you should avoid blowing your nose as much as possible, even if you feel the need to. The pressure when blowing the nose could prevent the tear from closing. 

You can also use a nasal spray to decongest your nose and prevent blowing. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open.

If your symptoms persist, you should reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. The tear in the sinus lining might be more severe. In such cases, the tear will need to be repaired surgically.

However, Tooth Infections Can Cause Sinus Infections

A tooth infection is just like any other infection. Over time, it can get worse, and the bacteria causing it can travel from the tooth to the surrounding tissues. 

If your upper tooth is infected, then bacteria can reach the sinuses and create a subsequent infection. The symptoms simply take longer to present, which is why you may only notice them after the root canal is performed.

Need a Root Canal? Parklane Family Dentistry Can Help

Experiencing the symptoms of a tooth infection? Frisco dentist Dr. Parul Vashisht can help you get a root canal and restore your oral health. 

If your discomfort is severe and you feel you can’t wait, call us at (469) 731-0391 as soon as possible to request a same-day or emergency appointment.

For a regular visit, you can schedule a consultation at Parklane Family Dentistry using our online form.