Can a Root Canal Cause a Sinus Infection?

Picture this: you get a tooth infection and need a root canal to heal the tooth and remove all of that pain and swelling.

The procedure goes perfectly, and you walk away with fully restored oral health. Then, a few days go by and you start to experience the symptoms of a sinus infection.

It’s not a common scenario, but it can happen to some patients. So, does a root canal procedure cause a sinus infection?

Here’s the full breakdown.

No, a Root Canal Doesn’t Cause Sinus Infections. But You Can Still Develop One

Root canals are one of the most common types of dental emergency procedures. A tooth infection is a serious oral health concern because if left unchecked, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, such as the gums or the jawbone.

And if one of your upper teeth gets infected, the bacteria causing the infection can spread to the sinuses.

So even if you get a root canal to remove the tooth infection, if it has already spread to the sinuses, you may experience the symptoms of a sinus infection soon after your treatment. 

But, it’s not the root canal that caused it. It was the initial tooth infection, but the timeline makes it seem as if the root canal is to blame.

Root Canals Can Cause Sinus Infection-Like Symptoms

Some patients experience symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose after a root canal and do not necessarily have a sinus infection.

Root canals involve cleaning the inside of the tooth of all the infected tissue, including the very narrow chambers of the root, known as the canal. In some cases, the sinus lining can be accidentally ruptured during the procedure, because the upper teeth' roots are close to the sinuses.

This condition is called “sinus communication”, and while it may be uncomfortable for a few days, it usually goes away on its own without needing additional treatment or intervention.

When Should You Be Concerned?

You should talk to your primary physician to rule out a possible sinus infection and get the appropriate treatment, which could include antibiotics and decongestants to relieve a stuffy nose. 

Moreover, in very rare cases sinus communication might require surgery if the rupture is bigger than 6 mm. You should reach out to your dentist if the symptoms of sinus communication last longer than a few days.

Dealing with a Tooth Infection or a Post Root Canal Complication? We Can Help

If you suspect one of your teeth might be infected, or recently got a root canal in Sparta and are experiencing complications, Dr. Austin Goodyke can help you access swift and compassionate oral health care.

Request a visit online, or call us today at (616) 887-0131 to learn more about our services and how we can help.