Have you recently undergone a dental implant surgery and have begun experiencing new symptoms involving nasal congestion or breathing problems? This likely isn’t a coincidence. One common complication that can occur with dental implant surgery is a sinus becoming perforated. Thankfully, a range of symptoms can indicate that it has occurred, and treatments are available to address them. The team here at Bluejay Family Dental is ready to help you address any concerns with your oral health. Keep on reading to learn the signs and symptoms of perforated sinuses and how they may be prevented or treated.
What Is A Perforated Sinus, And Why Do They Occur With Dental Implants?
A sinus becomes perforated with the implant process unintentionally tears a hole in the membrane that separates and protects the maxillary sinuses. When this barrier between the mouth cavity and the sinus is disrupted, it can cause multiple issues, including sinus infections and sinusitis. These conditions can be both uncomfortable and inconvenient. There are some clear indicators that a sinus perforation may have occurred during your procedure.
These symptoms include:
- Nasal Congestion – You may discover that you experience nasal congestion and runny noses more frequently after your dental implant procedure. This is caused by the perforation allowing air and bacteria to enter your sinus cavity.
- Pain – Another potential perforation symptom can include pain in the teeth, upper jaw, or sinuses. Tenderness and feelings of pressure typically accompany this.
- Difficulty Breathing – Perforation of the sinus cavity can make breathing through the nose difficult, especially if an infection is involved that causes the sinus membrane to swell.
- Bleeding – In the case of a severe perforation, it’s common for bleeding to occur at the implant site. The nose may also produce blood in these cases.
- Loss Of Smell – Infections occurring in the sinus may also result in the loss of smell or taste.
Repairing the perforation is a relatively straightforward process. The perforation is the result of the sinus floor broadening during the procedure. This can create a gap between the oral cavity and the sinuses. When this occurs, the clot cannot remain fixed in the cavity, forming a hole in this area. The repair process involves sealing this area off surgically. Precautions against the development of perforation are a normal part of the dental implant procedure. One such precaution involves measuring how thick the sinus membrane is using imaging scans such as radiographs. Another involves ensuring that the selected implants are appropriately sized for the patient. This can prevent the formation of perforation by reducing the strain on the sinus membrane.
Contact Bluejay Family Dental To Learn More
Want to learn more about perforated sinuses and the benefits of dental implants? The team at Bluejay Family Dental is here to help you experience the finest degree of dental care. When you join our patient family, you can rest assured that we’ll be there at every stage of your dental health journey. See us at our offices in Council Bluffs, IA, or call us today at (712) 256-6263.