Sinus precautions after tooth extraction
If your dentist is concerned about the potential for damage to the floor of your maxillary sinus after taking a tooth out, they will instruct you to take extra precautions. If you were not told to follow these extra precautions, you can skip these.
Download instructions- Why am I on sinus precautions?
- Because of the proximity of our top teeth to our sinuses, there are times when extracting a tooth can expose an opening between your mouth and the sinus, or the border can be so thin that you could inadvertantly create an exposure during the healing process.
- What do I need to avoid?
- For two weeks you should avoid blowing your nose, pushing or lifting heavy onjects, suction (smoking or using a straw), bending over, blowing. All of these activities can increase the pressure in your sinuses and create or worsen an exposure.
- What if it does not heal?
- The vast majority of these exposures heal on their own, in extreme cases additional surgery can be necessary. The main reason this is necessary is because these protocols are not followed.
- Do I need a prescription?
- Antibiotics may be prescribed as part of sinus precautions, take them as prescribed by your doctor, being sure to finish the full course. Your doctor might have recommend using an over-the-counter decongestant such as Sudafed or Dimetapp, take these as recommended.
- What are signs of a worsening condition?
- If, after 48 hours, you notice liquids in your nose after drinking or nosebleeds, you should return for evaluation.