In which scenario would an oroantral fistula most likely occur?

In which scenario would an oroantral fistula most likely occur?

• A. After a dental filling
• B. Frequently secondary to dental extraction
• C. Following orthodontic treatment
• D. During a root canal procedure

Answer: (B)

An oroantral fistula is an abnormal communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. It most commonly occurs when there is a breach in the sinus floor, which may take place during dental extractions, especially of maxillary molars. The roots of these teeth can extend into the sinus, increasing the risk of an oroantral fistula if there's a complication during extraction, such as a failure to preserve the integrity of the sinus lining. While dental fillings, orthodontic treatment, and root canal procedures have their own sets of complications and risks, they are not typically associated with the formation of oroantral fistulas. Dental fillings generally involve the restoration of a tooth rather than manipulation of surrounding soft tissues that could lead to a fistula. Orthodontic treatments focus on tooth movement and alignment without directly influencing the sinus anatomy. In root canal procedures, while there can be complications, they do not usually create a communication between the oral cavity and the sinus as an extraction might. Therefore, the most likely scenario where an oroantral fistula can develop is following a dental extraction, particularly of a maxillary molar, making it the correct choice.

An oroantral fistula is an abnormal communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. It most commonly occurs when there is a breach in the sinus floor, which may take place during dental extractions, especially of maxillary molars. The roots of these teeth can extend into the sinus, increasing the risk of an oroantral fistula if there's a complication during extraction, such as a failure to preserve the integrity of the sinus lining.

While dental fillings, orthodontic treatment, and root canal procedures have their own sets of complications and risks, they are not typically associated with the formation of oroantral fistulas. Dental fillings generally involve the restoration of a tooth rather than manipulation of surrounding soft tissues that could lead to a fistula. Orthodontic treatments focus on tooth movement and alignment without directly influencing the sinus anatomy. In root canal procedures, while there can be complications, they do not usually create a communication between the oral cavity and the sinus as an extraction might.

Therefore, the most likely scenario where an oroantral fistula can develop is following a dental extraction, particularly of a maxillary molar, making it the correct choice.