The importance of prompt referral when tooth roots are displaced into the maxillary antrum

It is well accepted that the apices of the roots of maxillary premolar and molar teeth are in close proximity, or directly related, to the base of the maxillary air sinus. When an upper tooth is extracted there is the potential for the creation of an oro-antral communication and the added possibility of displacement of tooth/roots into the antrum itself. The most commonly displaced tooth/root is the palatal root of the molar teeth.¹ Whenever an upper posterior tooth is to be extracted a patient should be counselled regarding the potential of the creation of an oro-antral communication and the possibility of displacement of tooth roots into the antrum itself.

A root can remain in the antrum and cause minimal adverse consequence, occasionally, however, complications arise and include acute or chronic sinusitis, the development of benign mucosal cysts/mucocoeles and antrolith formation.² Displaced roots have less commonly been reported as occluding the ostium or passing into the nose via the ostium. These have subsequently been expelled by sneezing or nose blowing or, in fact, swallowed or inhaled.³