ODONTOGENIC SINUSITIS: CURRENT CONCEPTS IN DIAGNOSIS AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY MANAGEMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(51).2026.6379Keywords:
Odontogenic Sinusitis; Chronic Rhinosinusitis; Cone-Beam Computed Tomography; Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery; Dental Implants; Multidisciplinary ManagementAbstract
Background: Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) is an increasingly recognized subtype of maxillary sinusitis caused by dental infections or dental procedures. It accounts for approximately 25–40% of chronic maxillary sinusitis cases and up to 70% of unilateral sinonasal disease. Despite its high prevalence, ODS remains underdiagnosed because of its nonspecific clinical presentation and the frequent absence of overt dental symptoms.
Objective: This narrative review summarizes current evidence regarding the etiology, microbiology, diagnosis, and multidisciplinary management of ODS, with particular emphasis on the role of advanced imaging modalities and collaboration between dental and otolaryngology specialists.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. English-language studies involving human subjects, including systematic reviews, retrospective studies, and prospective studies, were included. Additional information was obtained from authoritative textbooks in oral surgery, otolaryngology, and head and neck anatomy.
Results: The available evidence indicates that ODS most commonly results from periapical and periodontal infections or iatrogenic dental procedures, including implant placement and maxillary sinus augmentation. Accurate diagnosis requires correlation of clinical findings with nasal endoscopy and radiological imaging, particularly cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Successful management depends on elimination of the underlying odontogenic source combined with appropriate medical therapy and, when indicated, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Current evidence supports a multidisciplinary approach as the cornerstone of effective treatment.
Conclusions: ODS represents a common yet frequently overlooked cause of sinonasal disease. Early recognition, comprehensive radiological assessment, and close cooperation between dentists and otolaryngologists are essential for accurate diagnosis and optimal patient outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed to establish standardized diagnostic and therapeutic protocols.
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