Dentists can determine if a patient has a sinus infection based on various symptoms, including facial pain and pressure, nasal congestion, and discharge. The dentist may also examine the patient's sinuses using a lighted instrument or by tapping on the sinuses to check for pain or tenderness.
It is important for dentists to be able to identify sinus infections as they can cause a variety of problems, including tooth pain, jaw pain, and headaches. Early diagnosis and treatment of sinus infections can help to prevent these complications. Sinus infections can also lead to more serious problems, such as meningitis or brain abscess, if left untreated.
