Tooth Extraction As A Risk Factor for Maxillary Sinus Pneumatization : A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Maxillary sinus pneumatization following teeth extraction may require various treatment plans such as sinus lifting and alveolar grafting procedures to obtain sufficient alveolar bone height for implant surgery. The aim of this study was to identify sinus pneumatization and to help in determining the proper time for preprosthetic surgery following extraction of maxillary sinus related teeth. Methods We evaluated 75 teeth extraction related to maxillary sinus floor. The panoramic radiographs were evaluated before and after extraction of the posterior maxillary teeth. The radiographs were divided into 5 groups according to duration after extraction. Two reference points (the first point corresponds to the nasal spine while the second point corresponds to the most inferior point of the floor of the maxillary sinus wall) were determined on digital panoramic radiographs before and after teeth extraction and the distance between both aforementioned points was measured. Results The amount of pneumatization was found to be increased with time. The pneumatization within the first 6 months was limited. However, a sudden increase of pneumatization after 6th month, especially the highest between 18th and 24th months, was observed. The mean pneumatization amount was found to be highest in the 1st molar group. Conclusion According to the results of the present study, surgeons should not be waited any more than 6 months after tooth extraction for preprosthetic surgery in the posterior maxillary region as long as physiological healing of extraction socket is allowed.