Sinus Perforation by drill; ouch
 

About a month ago my dentist drilled through my upper jaw bone while putting in an implant and perforated my sinus. It feels like a knife in my face and I was wondering if there is a way to reduce the pain without pills. My kidneys are now aching from over the counter meds and I really don't want to take any narcotics. The gums were stitched up and nothing was implanted on top, but he did put something on the bottom jaw which has now totally healed over. I am not experiencing any pain in my mouth.

Any feedback would by appreciated...is this a common problem? Should I continue my treatment with the same dentist or find a new one?

Hi Susie

Welcome to NeuroTalk :).

I not an expert on this by I would get a second opinion from another dentist and also consider consider finding a new one.

Best wishes.

You need a good dental malpractice attorney ASAP

Hi susieq,

There are several reasons why a sinus would be perforated during the prep for the dental implant and it is also not uncommon for this to happen.

What tooth in your upper arch was being replaced by the implant?
How long ago was that tooth extracted?
Had that tooth been root canaled?
Do you have periodontal disease?
Did the dentist do a pre op dental ct scan?
Are you a smoker?

Have you been back to see the dentist since this happened? Did he take an xray... what was his recommendation? Did he prescribe antibiotics?

The floor of the maxillary sinus can sit very low and close to the roots of the upper posterior teeth. When a posterior tooth is extracted, the floor of the sinus drops down into the empty space. When drilling a hole in the bone preparing it for the placement of a dental implant perforates a low sinus, then depending on the situation, the area can be left alone and the perforation will heal on it's own. Sometimes infection develops or there are other reasons why the perforation does not heal.

The knife like pain in your face could indicate a nerve irritation... may or may not be a permanent problem. Your dentist should know that you are experiencing this type of pain and evaluate the area more thoroughly.

It is best to consult with your dentist about this pain and if necessary see an oral surgeon for another evaluation.

Bryanna