Wisdom teeth can cause sinus infections due to the close proximity between the upper jaw’s back teeth and the sinuses. When problems arise with the wisdom teeth, the resulting inflammation or infection can easily bridge this short anatomical gap. This condition, known as odontogenic sinusitis, accounts for a significant percentage of chronic sinus infections, making dental health a necessary consideration for persistent sinus issues.
The Close Anatomical Relationship
The connection is due to the location of the maxillary sinuses, the largest of the facial sinuses. These sinuses are positioned directly above the roots of the upper back teeth, known as the maxillary molars. The roots of the upper wisdom teeth, or third molars, often sit extremely close to the bony floor of the maxillary sinus cavity.
In some individuals, the roots of these teeth may project directly into the sinus, or the bone layer separating them may be exceptionally thin. The sinus is lined by the Schneiderian membrane, which is the only barrier protecting the sinus from the tooth root. This arrangement establishes how an issue originating in a tooth can quickly affect the sinus.
How Dental Issues Trigger Sinus Problems
The transfer of bacteria from an infected tooth into the sinus leads to odontogenic sinusitis. When a wisdom tooth has deep decay, a dental abscess, or an infection in the surrounding gum tissue (pericoronitis), bacteria multiply near the root tip. These pathogens can then erode the thin bone and breach the Schneiderian membrane, allowing the infection to directly enter the sinus cavity.
This spread of infection is often unilateral, meaning it affects only the sinus on the side of the compromised tooth. The resulting inflammation prevents the sinus from draining properly, leading to the accumulation of mucus and pus. Even without a full infection, the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth pushing upward can irritate the sinus lining, causing chronic inflammation and congestion symptoms.
Identifying Symptoms and Treatment Options
Sinusitis caused by a dental issue presents with symptoms that help distinguish it from a common cold or allergy-related infection. Symptoms, such as facial pain, pressure, and congestion, are often concentrated on only one side of the face. Patients may also notice a persistent foul odor or taste in their mouth, caused by the infected drainage.
The treatment for odontogenic sinusitis begins with eliminating the dental source of the infection. This usually involves removing the infected wisdom tooth or performing a root canal procedure to clear the abscess. Antibiotics are prescribed to resolve the bacterial infection, often combined with nasal irrigation or steroid sprays to manage inflammation. If the condition does not resolve after treating the dental issue, an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist may be consulted for further evaluation, possibly including a CT scan to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the sinus involvement.