Dental Implant Delay Because a Sinus Perforation Won’t Heal

Posted by AllSmiles

A sinus perforation after a second molar extraction is not healing. I wanted to schedule a consultation for a dental implant and probably a bone graft in June, but the perforation will not heal. My dentist asked me to be patient, but it’s been five months. How long should I wait before getting a second opinion? Thank you. Kasia

Kasia,

Thank you for contacting Radiant Smiles of Rocky Hill regarding a sinus perforation and delay in getting a dental implant.

How Long Does It Take for a Sinus Perforation to Heal?

Five months is enough time for mild to moderate sinus perforation to heal. Large perforations can take longer. Feel free to get a second opinion whenever you want. Although a sinus perforation does not necessarily mean that a dentist or oral surgeon was negligent, the dental professional who removed your tooth should take responsibility for giving you follow-up care and ensuring your recovery is as smooth as possible.

Why Would a Sinus Perforation Occur?

Three dental implants placed close together — A sinus perforation must heal to give dental implants a healthy start

A sinus perforation may occur when a thin layer of bone or membrane separates tooth roots from the sinus. Has your dentist or oral surgeon attempted to close the opening? We recommend asking for a referral to an oral surgeon or seeking a second opinion on your own.

An unhealed perforation will delay your dental implant treatment because a dental implant requires the following:

Healthy bone to support the implant
Healthy gum tissue to heal around the implant
Stabile environment to help a dental crown on the implants

Getting a Dental Implant After a Sinus Perforation

You can expect a highly trained implant dentist or oral surgeon to assess and repair your sinus perforation. A sinus augmentation or bone graft will ensure your dental implant has a healthy foundation that will integrate with the implant.

Request a consultation or second opinion promptly to repair the tear and promote healing.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologist, sponsors this post.