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Sinusitis as a source of dental pain
Peter L Jacobsen1, Angelle M Casagrande
1Oral Medicine Clinic, University of the Pacific Dental School, Oakland, Calif., USA. pjacobse@sf.uop.edu
Dentistry Today
|October 14, 2003
Summary
Dental pain in the back of the upper jaw may signal sinusitis. Dentists should rule out this sinus condition before dental treatment, referring or treating as needed.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Sinusitis frequently presents as dental pain, particularly in the maxillary posterior teeth.
- Differentiating sinusitis-induced dental pain from odontogenic sources can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of considering sinusitis in cases of unexplained maxillary posterior dental pain.
- To outline diagnostic and management options for dentists when sinusitis is suspected.
Main Methods:
- Clinical evaluation of patients with dental pain.
- Differential diagnosis incorporating sinusitis as a potential cause.
- Management strategies including referral or direct treatment of sinusitis.
Main Results:
- Sinusitis can mimic dental pain, necessitating a thorough differential diagnosis.
- Dentists must decide whether to refer patients for medical evaluation or manage sinusitis directly.
Conclusions:
- Dentists play a crucial role in identifying and managing sinusitis presenting as dental pain.
- Clinical judgment, training, and patient factors guide the management approach for suspected sinusitis-induced dental pain.