Comparison between the Maxillary Molar Roots with Maxillary Sinus in High-Resolution Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract

Background: The maxillary sinus, the most extensive paranasal sinuses, is located within the maxilla and is closely associated with the posterior maxillary teeth and Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool in dental practice.

Objective: To investigate the relationship of maxillary sinus and the mesiobuccal root of the maxillary first molar using high-resolution cone beam computed tomography.

Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at the Department of Periodontology, Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, Karachi from September 2023 to August 2024. In this study distance from the floor of the maxillary sinus to the mesiobuccal root of the maxillary 1st molar was measured by marking the apex of the root and the maxillary sinus floor, with the software automatically calculating the distance in millimeters and recorded. The mesiobuccal root was specifically selected for measurement as it is maximum distance from the sinus, and its proximity to the sinus indicates that the other roots are already located within the sinus.

Results: The mean age of our study patients was 42.71±6.81 years. There were 47 (37.3%) patients ≤40 years, and 79 (62.7%) patients >40 years of age. There were 71 (56.3%) males and 55 (43.7%) females. The average right and left side measurements were -0.73±0.53 mm and -0.84±0.23 mm, respectively (p =0.287).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that in healthy dental patients, the mesiobuccal root of 1st molar is in close proximity to floor of maxillary sinus, with nearly direct contact.