Having dental implant surgery can be an exciting and terrifying time, especially when you finally receive a replacement for a missing or damaged tooth. However, one less commonly discussed topic is the potential complications that can arise. If you’re experiencing odd symptoms such as nasal congestion and breathing problems, then it may indicate a perforated sinus. Here’s what you need to know about this condition, its symptoms, and whether your dentist can correct it.
What Does It Mean To Have a Perforated Sinus After Dental Implant Surgery?
Perforated sinuses occur when the sinus membrane is inadvertently damaged during a dental implant procedure. The implant technique causes a tear in the membrane that protects the maxillary sinuses in your mouth cavity. When this tear in the membrane occurs, it can result in sinusitis or a sinus infection, which can be difficult and painful.
If you believe you have a perforated sinus after getting an implant, then here are some symptoms to look out for:
- Nasal Congestion: With a perforated sinus, air and bacteria enter the sinus cavity, which can cause nasal congestion or a runny nose.
- Difficulty Breathing: Punctured sinuses can make it difficult to breathe through the nose and cause inflammation and infection in the sinus membrane.
- Bleeding: If the implant site perforated the sinus severely enough, then there may be signs of bleeding from the nose or the implant site.
- Loss of Smell: When you have an infection in your sinuses, then a perforated sinus can make you lose your sense of taste or smell.
- Pain: Pain can radiate throughout the upper jaw, teeth, or sinuses when the sinus is perforated, and it’s often accompanied by pressure or tenderness.
If you are experiencing a perforated sinus, then your dentist will be able to refer you to an oral surgeon to repair the site. In these cases, your dental provider should take responsibility for the error and pay for the care you need for the oral surgeon to correct it. In these cases, your dentist should have protocols in place if you have a perforated sinus and follow up with your healing.
When dealt with properly, a perforated sinus can heal on its own. However, when perforated sinuses are left to linger, they can lead to life-long problems, including repeating infections, breathing problems, and other complications. During this time, your dentist should do the following:
Diagnosis:
If a sinus perforation occurs during dental implant surgery, it is crucial to diagnose it promptly. Your dentist may use various diagnostic tools such as dental imaging (e.g., cone beam computed tomography) to determine the extent and location of the perforation accurately.
Treatment Options:
Your dentist should provide you with treatment options for your perforated sinus after dental implant surgery. The treatment you receive depends on the size of the perforation and the overall condition of the patient. Some of these options include:
Conservative Management:
In cases where the perforation is small and asymptomatic, a conservative approach may be adopted. The dentist may recommend close monitoring of the perforation, with regular follow-up appointments to assess healing. In some instances, the perforation can heal independently without requiring further intervention.
Sinus Lift Procedure:
If the perforation is larger or causing symptoms, a sinus lift procedure may be necessary. A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation, is a surgical technique that involves elevating the sinus floor and placing a bone graft to promote new bone formation. This procedure helps to close the perforation and facilitate proper healing of the sinus membrane.
Repair with a Membrane:
In cases where the perforation is significant, the dentist may repair the perforated sinus by using a specialized membrane. This membrane acts as a barrier, preventing oral bacteria from entering the sinus cavity while promoting the regeneration of the sinus lining. The use of such a membrane can aid in the closure of the perforation and reduce the risk of infection.
Collaboration with an ENT Specialist:
Your dentist should collaborate with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist in complex cases or situations with extensive perforation. An ENT specialist can provide expertise in managing and repairing sinus perforations. They may employ advanced techniques, such as endoscopic sinus surgery, to repair the perforation and restore normal sinus function.
Post-Treatment Care:
After treating a perforated sinus, following proper post-treatment care instructions is essential. Your dentist should provide detailed guidelines to ensure you’re healing and minimize the risk of complications. These instructions may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding excessive force when brushing or flossing, adhering to a soft diet, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
Call Tulsa Precision Dental For a Consultation Today!
While a perforated sinus during dental implant surgery can present challenges, the experienced team at Tulsa Precision Dental in Tulsa, OK, is well-equipped to handle such complications. If you experience a perforated sinus after dental implant surgery, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from Tulsa Precision Dental by calling Dr. Chris and Kristie Vinson at (918) 492-1917 for an appointment.
