Can Dental Implants Cause Sinus Infections?
If you want a dental implant, then you may have a wide variety of questions bouncing around your head. If an implant is needed along the upper and front portion of the mouth, then you may be concerned about the way the implants can affect your sinus cavities. Sinus infections may also be a concern, especially if you have allergies or another condition that makes you prone to the issue. Keep reading to learn about whether or not dental implants can cause sinus infections or not and what your dental professional will do to avoid the problem.
Can Dental Implants Cause Sinus Infections?
Dental implants placed in the front of the mouth can come close to the sinus cavities. Specifically, they are often secured close to the maxillary sinuses that sit just above the maxilla or top jaw bone. This close placement can cause a great deal of swelling both near and within the sinuses and this can close off the cavities. This situation can lead to the trapping of bacteria and other microorganisms in the cavities and an infection may develop.
Also, if the dental implant root is simply too long for the space, then the end of the titanium screw can actually pierce the sinuses. The tissue damage and swelling that accompanies this issue can lead to an infection.
Since you should not place any pressure on the implant device soon after its surgical placement, you will be unable to blow your nose. Nose blowing helps to clear away bacteria and other debris that may cause a sinus infection, so the inability to clear it out may lead to infections as well.
How Can A Dentist Help With The Prevention Of Sinus Infections?
There are some things that your dentist can and will do to minimize sinus infection risks. The implant area is first mapped out with advanced imagery and your dentist will decide whether and MRI or CT scan is right for you. This helps with the measurement of the space between the haw and the sinus cavities. If your dentist feels that an implant root is needed that is too long to fit in the area, then an angled one may be considered instead. If the fit is still too close, then bone grafting will be suggested.
A sinus lift may be a good option too where bone is actually added to the sinus cavity. Keep in mind that this may not be the best option if you have small sinuses already or if you experience a lot of congestion. However, there is often a good solution to avoid sinus problems and to also receive the implant you want. For more information, contact a dental implant provider in your area.
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