I’ve waited almost two months for a sinus perforation to heal, and I still have a headache and fever. My dentist made a treatment plan for me. After healing, the next step is to get my teeth whitened before a second molar implant and crown, but this sinus deal is not going away. Is it too late for my dentist to do anything? Should I ask him to refer me to an oral surgeon? I just want to keep things moving.

Thank you. Gerard

Gerard,

Depending on its size, a sinus perforation should heal entirely within three to eight weeks. When it does not, a root tip or bone fragment in your sinus might delay the healing process. Did your dentist X-ray your sinus? If so, he or she should be able to see foreign objects on the X-ray.

When a Sinus Perforation Will Not Heal After Tooth Extraction

If a sinus perforation does not heal after tooth extraction, you can ask your dentist to refer you to an otolaryngologist (ENT) doctor. The ENT will check your X-ray for tooth root tips or bones that can interfere with healing. What else will the ENT do?

• Remove any foreign objects
• Close and suture the perforation
• Prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection

After treatment from the ENT, you can resume your dentist’s plan for replacing your tooth with a dental implant. Before continuing your treatment plan, ensure that the perforation heals well and that you have good oral health.

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