Single‑visit nonsurgical endodontic treatment of maxillary sinusitis: A case series

Abstract

The etiopathology of maxillary sinusitis of dental origin (MSDO) is well established, and chronic
apical periodontitis is the second most common cause of all dental‑induced sinusitis incidents.
The literature presents no common treatment protocols for MSDO and very few studies address
the impact of root canal treatment (RCT) in its management. The literature presents cases of
maxillary sinusitis resolution after performing a multivisit nonsurgical endodontic treatment, yet
none described complete healing of MSDO as a result of single‑visit nonsurgical RCT. This paper
reports a case series of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO) associated with upper
maxillary molars that were successfully treated with single‑visit nonsurgical antiseptic RCT. In all
cases, the clinical symptoms subsided within a week after endodontic treatment. Control cone‑beam
computed tomography (CBCT) scan showed healing of periapical bone and total resolution of
maxillary sinusitis symptoms. MSDO treatment protocol should start with nonsurgical antiseptic
RCT. Single‑visit nonsurgical endodontic treatment can be effective in MSEO management. CBCT
is a method of choice in MSEO diagnostics. Endodontists are well trained and well equipped to
treat MSDO, and the cooperation between ear, nose, and throat specialists, maxillofacial surgeons,
and endodontists is crucial for both: good diagnostics and treatment.
Key Words: Endodontic treatment, maxillary sinusitis, maxillary sinusitis of dental origin,
maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin, root canal treatment