After I had an upper right molar extracted, the dentist told me I had a sinus perforation. A piece of bone came out. I thought it had healed, but I felt something strange after blowing my nose two days ago. The point of extraction pushed away from my gums. Will this heal, or do I need to do something else? The extraction was in early February. Should I be concerned? Thanks. Marlo from San Diego
Marlo,
The perforation should have healed in almost five months. However, if air continually passes through it, healing can be challenging. You should seek care from your dentist or get a second opinion.
The dentist who completed the extraction should have followed up or referred you to an oral surgeon. If the dentist is still practicing, you can return for a resolution. A sinus perforation can happen with any extraction, especially with long tooth roots or tooth roots that touch the sinus, only separated by a thin layer of bone or membrane. The dentist should realize a perforation occurred and provide treatment to close it, following the case until you’ve healed.
You can follow up with your dentist and request a referral to an oral surgeon if your dentist cannot resolve the issue.
Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas of Cornerstone Dentistry sponsors this post. Read about Dr. Thomas’s commitment to giving his patients the best dental care possible.