Introducing dental implants as a restorative dentistry option was revolutionary for those who had lost teeth to decay or trauma. Instead of replacing their teeth with dentures that required adhesives to secure and had to be taken out to be cleaned, implants were almost like having their natural teeth. However, the procedure for having implants set in place has potential complications. While rare, one potential complication is a perforated sinus. The most common symptoms associated with this perforation include difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and sinus infections. The team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Palm City can help address these concerns when they occur. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Perforated Sinuses Occasionally Happen With Dental Implants
Within our nasal cavity is a membrane that separates the sinus cavity from the oral cavity. When this membrane becomes compromised, an infection can get into our sinuses. These infections can be painful or merely uncomfortable. A few symptoms can indicate that you’re experiencing indicators of a perforated sinus. These include:
- Nasal Congestion – If you’re experiencing an unusual amount of nasal congestion, have frequent runny noses, or otherwise are noticing symptoms like these more frequently than before, it could be a perforated sinus.
- Pain – Discomfort after surgery is fairly typical. However, when that discomfort is persistent or is getting worse, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. A perforated sinus is one potential cause. Perforated sinuses often create sensations of tenderness and pressure in the teeth, sinuses, and upper jaw.
- Difficulty breathing – Breathing through your nose can be difficult while living with a perforated sinus. This difficulty is caused by the sinuses becoming swollen or infected.
- Loss of Smell – Sinus perforation can also make it more difficult to smell normally. If you’re experiencing changes in your sense of smell, check in with the professionals at Aesthetic Dentistry of Palm City.
- Bleeding – A little bleeding after your implant surgery isn’t unusual. However, if it persists or worsens, you must check it immediately.
Thankfully the treatments for a perforated sinus are relatively routine. This perforation is usually the result of the broadening of the sinus floor during the implant procedure. This leads to the development of a gap which is difficult for your body to heal naturally on its own. When it fails to heal, it may be necessary to get surgery to close the gap that remains.
Perforated Sinus Concerns Can Be Treated At Aesthetic Dentistry Of Palm City
If you’ve recently received dental implants and are experiencing symptoms similar to those listed above, it’s time to contact our office. We can help find the location of the concern and develop a treatment plan to get your sinus and oral health back on track. You can start by contacting our offices at (772) 283-8350 and scheduling your first exam and consultation. During your visit, we’ll work with you to determine the source of your symptoms, identify and locate the perforation, and begin scheduling the treatments to address it. The more promptly you seek treatment, the sooner your breathing and quality of life can return to normal.