Points to consider before the insertion of maxillary implants: the otolaryngologist's perspective

Maxillary implants are inserted in the upward direction, meaning that they oppose gravity, and achieving stable support is difficult if the alveolar bone facing the maxillary sinus is thin. Correspondingly, several sinus-lifting procedures conducted with or without bone graft materials have been used to place implants in the posterior area of the maxilla. Even with these procedures available, it has been reported that in about 5% of cases, complications occurred after implantation, including acute and chronic sinusitis, penetration of the sinus by the implant, implant dislocation, oroantral fistula formation, infection, bone graft dislocation, foreign-body reaction, Schneiderian membrane perforation, and ostium plugging by a dislodged bone graft. This review summarizes common maxillary sinus pathologies related to implants and suggests an appropriate management plan for patients requiring dental implantation.