Relationship of Periapical and Periodontal Pathologies of Maxillary First Molars with Maxillary Sinus Membrane Thickness: A Retrospective CBCT Analysis
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: This study aimed to assess the association between periapical lesions (PLs), periodontal bone loss (PBL), and maxillary sinus mucosal thickness (SMT) in the maxillary first molar (M1) region using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods:In this retrospective cross-sectional study, 240 maxillary sinuses adjacent to the M1 were examined using CBCT images from 140 patients (mean age: 32.62 ± 12.22 years).SMT values were measured perpendicular to the sinus floor, with values exceeding 2 mm defined as pathological.PL size, PL-sinus distance, and PBL severity were categorized according to CBCTbased criteria.Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests, and intra-observer reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).Results: Statistical analysis revealed excellent measurement reliability (ICC: 0.96).While gender had no significant impact on SMT (p > 0.05), increased SMT was clearly correlated with odontogenic pathologies, specifically PL and advanced PBL associated with the M1.This association was observed to intensify when lesions were closer to the sinus floor or directly affected its integrity.Conclusion: CBCT findings demonstrate an association between periapical and periodontal pathologies in the M1 region and maxillary sinus mucosal thickening, supporting odontogenic effects on the Schneiderian membrane.A detailed CBCT evaluation of the relationship between dental pathologies and the maxillary sinus may enhance the accuracy of radiological diagnosis and contribute to improved clinical decision-making and appropriate referral planning.
Source: Hamidiye Medical Journal
Authors: Ali Ocak, Mehmet Akyüz
Institution: Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204215575