I-5 Odontogenic Sinusitis - What Endodontists Need to Know

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: The pathological extension of periapical infection into the maxillary sinuses is often overlooked in clinical medical and dental practice, with its sequelae often misdiagnosed as rhinogenic sinusitis. This lecture explains and illustrates the similarities, distinguishing differences, and frequent inter-relationship between endodontic disease and paranasal sinus infections. The associated clinical and radiographic findings of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO) are explained using many real-world clinical case examples with an update on the current literature. Emphasis is placed on the importance of CBCT imaging, magnification, proper terminology, and clinical expertise for rendering both non-surgical and surgical endodontic treatment when indicated. The goal is to help practitioners distinguish rhinosinusitis from odontogenic sinusitis, and specifically MSEO, in an effort to improve the health of patients through accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and improved communication between endodontists and ENT specialists.

Learning Objectives: 

• Describe the clinical symptoms and radiograph similarities and differences between rhinogenic sinusitis and the various forms of odontogenic sinusitis.
• Describe the progression and pathogenic effects of apical periodontitis on the sinus tissues and the associated clinical and radiographic findings of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO) using current terminology.
• Describe the importance of proper endodontic management for successful treatment of MSEO, recognizing the complexity of maxillary posterior canal morphology and the unique non-surgical and surgical challenges present with maxillary posterior teeth proximate to the maxillary sinus.