Can a tooth infection cause sinus drainage?

An infection in teeth with advancing decay or whose nerve tissue has died will eventually reach the root tip through tiny passageways called root canals. If the roots are close to or penetrating the maxillary sinus, the infection could move into the sinus.

Can a tooth cavity cause a sinus infection?

This occurs when a cavity reaches the center of a tooth, which contains soft material called dental pulp. The pulp is easily infected by oral bacteria, and without treatment it’s easy for the infection to move beyond the tooth and into the bone.

Can a sinus infection spread to the maxillary sinus?

Therefore an infection in the upper teeth can spread to the maxillary sinus rather easily. Symptoms of this type of sinus infection include post nasal drip and sinus congestion.

Can a tooth abscess travel into the sinus?

Sometimes there is only a thin membrane separating the roots of the upper teeth and the sinus, making it very easy for an infection to travel into the sinuses. Although this person wasn’t exhibiting any symptoms of a sinus infection, but the x-rays do a good job of showing just how close the abscess is to the sinus.

Can a trip to the dentist cause a sinus infection?

However, most are not aware that sinusitis, specifically maxillary sinusitis can be caused by a trip to the dentist. Sinusitis is a common disease affecting more than 35 million people the US each year. Even though it is incredibly common, sinus infections are still among the most frequently misdiagnosed diseases in clinical practice.

What causes a sinus infection after a tooth extraction?

These often perforate the Schneiderian membrane and lead to infection. Another incredibly common cause is perforations of the maxillary sinus during tooth extractions. This is why you should consider ruling out odontogenic sinusitis if you experience symptoms after recently having a tooth removed.

Can a sinus infection spread to a tooth?

However, the symptoms for a tooth infection can be similar, including: In addition, more symptoms might cross over. A sinus infection can put pressure on your tooth, leading to a toothache. Infections can also spread from your tooth to your sinuses.

How does a cavernous sinus infection spread to the face?

The cavernous sinuses receive blood from a web of veins that contain no valves, therefore blood can flow in any direction depending on the prevailing pressure gradients. Since the cavernous sinuses receive blood via this distribution, infections of the upper teeth and face can spread easily via the facial vein into this complex of veins.

Can a tooth abscess cause a cavernous sinus thrombosis?

In addition to the common localized pain and swelling that accompanies a dental abscess, a more rare complication of a tooth abscess can occur called a cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST). This is just one example of another serious issue that can arise from a dental abscess. The cavernous sinuses are cavities located at the base of the skull.