Hi Kat,

I'm not sure what you mean by a "sinus lump"...? If you are referring to a "pimple like" lump on the bony gum area above the molar, then that is called a fistula. Could that be what you have?

A fistula is a path of infection that originates from the inside of the tooth, proliferates into the jawbone and burrows a hole through the bone showing itself as a bump or pimple above the infected tooth.

All root canaled teeth harbor necrotic, infectious bacteria. Therefore, it is common for root canaled teeth to end up with this type of proliferated infection. Retreating the tooth with another root canal or a surgery called an apicoectomy will not eliminate the necrotic bacteria inside the microscopic canals (called dentin tubules) that line the interior portion of the entire tooth. The only way to eliminate the infection is to remove the source which is the tooth.

Your treatment options are going to be... retreat with another root canal, apicoectomy or removal. Replacement options may be a dental implant; a bridge if you have healthy teeth on both sides of this tooth to anchor a bridge onto; or a removable partial denture is you are missing other teeth in your upper arch that have not yet been replaced.

You are wise to review your treatment options with your dentists prior to having any treatment done. If you are seeking complete removal of the infection and a long term solution... then removal of the tooth is the ideal option.

Kat, please keep us posted on how you're doing or if you have any other questions.

Bryanna