Can Root Canals Cause Sinus Infections?

Have you just had a root canal and are experiencing what seems to be a sinus infection? Then you're likely wondering if the two are connected.

Your sinuses are closely placed next to your upper teeth, so it’s not that much of a stretch to wonder if this procedure somehow led to an infection. But is it possible for such a procedure to cause a sinus infection?

Your Tooth Infection Can Lead to a Sinus Infection

Because of their proximity, a tooth infection can lead to a sinus infection as the bacteria can spread to the sinus lining. However, it’s not the root canal that caused the infection.

Root canal therapy is a treatment where the dentist removes damaged tissue from your tooth, which in a lot of cases can actually prevent the infection from spreading to your sinuses. 

However, if your symptoms of sinusitis only appear after you’ve had the root canal, it can be because of two things:

• The bacteria already spread to the sinuses, but symptoms only appeared after the root canal.
• The root canal was not successful.
  

How Does a Root Canal Work?

During a root canal, the dentist will clean and disinfect the interior of your tooth, which will remove all the bacteria causing the infection. But, it is possible for the treatment to fail, either because the dentist did not get all bacteria out, or there was a stronger strain of bacteria present, which resisted the disinfectant.

In this case, it is possible to experience a sinus infection after you’ve had a root canal. However, it’s important to note that should this happen, it also likely means you still have a tooth infection. If the infection remains in the tooth, you will usually have some discomfort or even pain, in which case you need to call your dentist right away for a follow-up.

If there is no tooth pain and just sinus discomfort, treatment is usually the same as with a regular sinus infection. See your doctor to get the proper treatment.

What If It’s Not a Sinus Infection?

You might have some sinusitis symptoms without actually having an infection. In some cases, a dentist might have punctured the sinus lining by accident during the root canal procedure, which can lead to some pressure or even mild congestion.

These instances are rare, but they do happen. The great news is that the punctures usually heal on their own in a few days, which will also make your symptoms go away.

Come to Academy Dental Care for the Right Dental Services

If you’re dealing with a tooth infection and think you might need a root canal, Academy Dental Care is at your service. With our expertise, we can eliminate your discomfort and ensure you have a healthy smile.

Book an appointment with Dr. Thomas O'Shea today and find out more about how our practice can help.