Correlation of Maxillary Sinus Mucosal Thickness with Alveolar Bone Loss Using Computed Tomography

Background: Because of close association of roots of maxillary premolars and molars with maxillary sinuses, effect of periodontal bone loss on sinuses needs to be evaluated. Objective: The current study aimed to analyze relationship between of maxillary sinus mucosal thickening and alveolar bone loss using computed tomography. Methodology: All erupted second premolars and first and second molars in the maxillary arch bilaterally, at 12 points in each patient (mesial and distal sides of each tooth) were assessed for periodontal bone loss (PBL) and at same locations mucosal thickening (MT) was assessed on maxillary sinus floor. Furthermore, probable effect of each tooth pulpoperiapical condition (PPAC) on sinus mucosal thickening was assessed. Results: The present study consisted of 110 individuals of which CT images of 220 maxillary sinuses and 639 teeth (total 1278 teeth surfaces) were studied. MT was observed in 71.83% of sinus locations showing thickening of 1-3mm in 64.38%, 3.1-6mm in 14.71%, 6.1-10mm in 11.33%, and \u3e10mm in 9.59% of cases. PBL was observed in 69.01% of teeth surface locations showing mild alveolar bone loss in 69.84%, moderate in 25.06%, and severe in 5.10% of cases. When statistically analyzed, sinus MT was significantly associated with PBL and PPAC but stronger effect of PBL was present. Conclusion: In our study, observed prevalence of sinus MT was 71.83% and prevalence of periodontitis was 69.01%. Sinus MT was associated significantly with PBL. Key Words: Maxillary sinus, alveolar bone loss, pulpoperiapical condition, sinus mucosal thickening, computed tomography