Maxillary sinus disease of odontogenic origin

The maxillary sinus, anatomically lying in an intermediate position between the nasal and oral cavities is vulnerable to invasion by pathogenic organisms through the nasal ostium or the mouth. Odontogenic sinusitis accounts for approximately 10% to 12% of maxillary sinusitis cases. Sinus disease of odontogenic origin deserves special consideration because of some differences in pathophysiology, microbiology, and management as compared with sinus disease of other origins. Sinusitis related to dentistry and odontogenic causes can occur when the Schneidarian membrane is violated by conditions such as odontogenic pathology of the maxillary bone, infections arising from the maxillary teeth, maxillary dental trauma, or iatrogenic causes such as dental extractions, placement of dental implants, and maxillary osteotomies in orthognathic surgery. Management of sinus disease of odontogenic origin often requires treatment of the sinusitis as well the odontogenic source.