The Association Between Maxillary Sinus Mucosal Thickening and Periapical Radiolucency Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Scanning: A Retrospective Study

Introdouction: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning is a technological innovation developed in recent years with potential use in oral surgery and many other dental procedures. The aim of this study is to determine the maxillary sinus mucosal thickening in the maxillary premolar-molar area using the CBCT technique. Materials and methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 105 cases (49 females and 56 males) that had 186 exposed maxillary sinuses were included. The age range of the cases was 24–58 years old. Periapical infections of maxillary molars and mucosal thickness changes were detected and recorded by two specialists in a radiologist and a periodontist. Results: Mucosal thickening in either one or both maxillary sinuses was found in the periapical area of 14 second premolars (13.3%), 48 first molars (45.7%), 39 second molars (37.1%), and 4 third molars (3.8%), with mucosal thickenings >1.8 mm. The mean maxillary sinus mucosal thickening in cases with PA radiolucency was 1.7 mm, and in patients without PA radiolucency, the mean was 2.1 mm (p = 0.01). Mucosal thickening due to pulpal infections of untreated teeth was seen in 39 (37.1%) cases, and mucosal thickening due to inadequate previous root canal therapy was seen in 66 (62.9%) patients. Conclusion: CBCT is a helpful method for detecting periapical lesions which affect the maxillary sinus and is recommended in maxillary surgical procedures.