Can a Wisdom Tooth Cause a Sinus Infection?

Can a Wisdom Tooth Cause a Sinus Infection?

Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS

Reading time: three minutes

Have you felt sinus pain or pressure near your cheeks or temples—just as your wisdom teeth started to act up? You might be surprised to learn that your teeth and sinuses are more connected than you think.

In this blog, we’ll explain how impacted wisdom teeth or those growing near the maxillary sinus can lead to discomfort, and in rare cases, even a sinus infection.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Upper wisdom teeth are located near the maxillary sinus. When they’re impacted, infected, or erupting improperly, they can cause sinus symptoms or even contribute to maxillary sinusitis. If you’re feeling pressure, congestion, or facial pain, get your teeth evaluated to protect both your sinuses and your oral health.

How Are Wisdom Teeth and Sinuses Connected?

The upper wisdom teeth are located just beneath the maxillary sinus, a hollow cavity behind your cheeks. In some people, the roots of these teeth sit so close that they may press against or irritate the sinus lining as the teeth grow in.

This can cause:

  • Sinus pain and tenderness behind the cheeks or eyes
  • Pressure that worsens when leaning forward or lying down
  • Radiating toothaches that mimic sinus problems
  • Nasal congestion, postnasal drip, or nasal discharge

In rare cases, this close contact or an infection in the tooth can lead to maxillary sinusitis, which is inflammation or infection of the maxillary sinus cavity.

Can a Wisdom Tooth Cause a Sinus Infection?

While not common, wisdom teeth can contribute to a sinus infection in certain cases, especially when:

  • The tooth becomes impacted and infected
  • There’s an opening between the tooth socket and the maxillary sinus (called an oroantral communication)
  • Bacteria from an infected tooth spreads into the sinus, causing maxillary sinusitis

If you’ve recently had a difficult wisdom teeth extraction, some temporary sinus irritation is normal. However, ongoing symptoms may require further treatment.

Signs a Wisdom Tooth Is Causing Sinus Problems

If you are noticing the following symptoms at the same time your upper wisdom teeth are erupting, the tooth may be affecting your sinus cavity:

  • Pain or swelling in your cheek or upper jaw
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure under the eyes
  • Pain when biting or chewing with upper molars
  • Nasal discharge or drainage that has a foul taste or odor
  • Swollen gum tissue near the back molars
  • Persistent congestion or postnasal drip on one side

What to Do If You Suspect a Tooth-Sinus Connection

If you are experiencing both dental pain and sinus symptoms, it’s best to schedule a full dental exam. At Young Dental SF Group, we use advanced imaging (like CBCT scans) to assess whether your wisdom teeth are affecting your sinuses.

We may recommend:

  • Monitoring if the tooth isn’t causing infection or sinus inflammation
  • Prescribing antibiotics if a sinus or tooth infection is present
  • Performing wisdom teeth removal if the tooth is impacted or causing recurring sinus symptoms

Protecting Your Sinus and Oral Health

Ignoring wisdom tooth problems doesn’t just affect your teeth, it can compromise your sinuses and overall oral health. Whether it’s sinus pressure, infections, or difficulty cleaning around impacted wisdom teeth, early treatment helps avoid long-term complications.

Learn More About the Advantages and Disadvantages of Removing Wisdom Teeth. 

Wisdom Tooth Evaluations in San Francisco, CA

If you are experiencing sinus discomfort, swelling, or persistent dental pain, our team at Young Dental SF Group can help you find answers. We use advanced imaging and thorough evaluations to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatment for your needs.

To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, CA, today at (415)-392-8611. Visit us at 490 Post Street Suite 830, San Francisco, CA.

FAQs

Can an infected wisdom tooth cause sinus drainage?

If the upper tooth is infected, it may trigger inflammation in the sinus and lead to nasal discharge or a bad taste in your mouth.

Will my sinus issues go away after wisdom teeth removal?

In many cases, yes, especially if the tooth was pressing against the sinus or causing infection. Removal often relieves symptoms like congestion, pressure, and referred pain. However, if your sinus issues are due to other conditions, such as chronic sinusitis or allergies, you may need additional treatment from a medical provider to fully resolve them.

How long after wisdom tooth removal can sinus symptoms last?

Mild symptoms like pressure, stuffiness, or swelling often improve within a few days to a week. If you notice persistent drainage, sinus pain, or symptoms that worsen instead of getting better, contact your dentist or oral surgeon.