The upper back teeth are in close proximity to the group of air chambers(sinuses) in our skull as can be seen in the cross section on the right. This close relationship is important.
If a tooth cavity is not treated the bacteria spread to the pulp chamber and from there invade the surrounding bone. This is commonly known as a dental abscess and can be treated with a root canal treatment. But if the tooth is not treated the bacteria can continue and spread to adjacent structures the sinus, the orbit and they can even reach the brain causing an infection there.
The first stage of bacterial spreading is many times a chronic or acute sinusitis. The signs of it are headache or facial pain or pressure of a dull, constant, or aching sort over the affected sinuses in both acute and chronic stages of sinusitis. This pain is localized to the involved sinus and may worsen when the affected person bends over or when lying down. Infection of the eye socket can follow, which may result in the loss of sight and is accompanied by fever and severe illness. Another possible complication is the infection of the bones (osteomyelitis) of the forehead and other facial bones or the body may drain the infecition to the surrounding tissues causing a large swelling in the face. Halitosis (bad breath) can be felt some times as the bacterial products manifest themselves.
The treatment involves draining the bacteria and removing or treating the tooth which is the source of the infection .If you suffer from these symptoms it would be advisable to visit us .