Use of a Non-Resorbable DPTFE Membrane to Close an Oroantral Communication of the Posterior Maxilla after Tooth Extraction: A Case Report

Oroantral communication (OAC) is a common complication following extraction of maxillary premolar and molar teeth. This is due to the close anatomic proximity of the roots of these teeth to the maxillary sinus. The most frequent methods utilized in the office described in the literature to close an oroantral communication involve the use of a buccal or palatal rotational advancement flap or use of the buccal fat pad. These surgical procedures require appropriate surgical skill and training to manage this type of complication and are associated with donor sit morbidity, such as avascular flap necrosis that can lead to soft tissue graft failure to close the OAC, infection and extreme postoperative patient discomfort. The goal of this case report is to describe a technique to close the OAC with a non-resorbable high-density polytetrafluoroethylene (dPTFE) membrane (Osteogenics, Lubbuck, TX) that leads to predictable soft tissue regeneration and consistent closure of the OAC.