European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated correlations between findings on panoramic
radiographs and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to assess the relationship
between the maxillary sinus floor and the roots of maxillary posterior teeth. In addition,
radiographic signs indicating actual root protrusion into the maxillary sinus were
evaluated on panoramic radiographs.
Methods:A total of 250 maxillary posterior teethwho underwent panoramic
radiography and CBCT were enrolled. The relationship between the posterior teeth and
the maxillary sinus and panoramic radiography signs associated with protrusion of root
apices into the sinus were evaluated.
Results: There were differences between the imaging modalities about the positioning of
the root apices regarding the sinus (p<0.05). Only the projecting of the root apices and
the interruption of the sinus floor on panoramic radiography were predictors for the
root protrusion (p<0.05).
Conclusions:Knowledge of anatomical relationship between the maxillary posterior
teeth and maxillary sinus guides not only in proper preoperative treatment planning
but also avoids the possible complications encounter while performing the minor oral
surgical procedures involving maxillary posterior teeth, which are close to the maxillary
sinus.