Q. Are my teeth connected to my sinuses?

A. Yes, the alveolar process connects the upper teeth to the maxillary sinuses. When your upper teeth become infected with bacteria, the infection may extend to the maxillary sinuses causing you to experience symptoms similar to sinusitis.

Q. How can my teeth cause a sinus problem?

A. Your maxillary sinuses are connected to the oral cavity and the upper tooth roots by a 'U' shaped process, called the alveolar. When the roots of your maxillary teeth become infected due to any underlying dental disorders, the infection may extend into the maxillary sinuses through the alveolar process. If left untreated, this extension may develop into a sinus infection.

Poor oral hygiene can cause increased growth of bacteria along the teeth and gum area. This bacterial buildup may increase the chances of bacteria entering your sinuses and causing an infection. In the case of a very bad dental disorder, an abscess can form below the gum line, if left untreated the bacteria causing the abscess can burrow up into the maxillary sinus cavity and cause a very severe sinus infection.

Q. Is there a difference between dental pain and sinus pain?

A. Sinus pain, especially when the maxillary sinuses are involved, is very similar to dental pain, i.e. whether you have a sinus toothache or dental toothache your cheeks will still be sensitive to touch.

Slight differences between dental and sinus pain may be found in this table: