Differences in Distance between Maxillary Posterior Root Apices and the Sinus Floor According to Malocclusion: A Review Article on Various Radiographic Images

The paranasal sinuses are bony cavities at the beginning of upper airway has a pyramidal shape and situated on both sides of the maxilla. They are first to develop and reach their maximum at which all the permanent teeth except the third molars have erupted. The floor of maxillary sinus extends upto the alveolar process of maxillary arch and the hard palate thus, sharing a close anatomic and functional relationship with posterior teeth. In Orthodontic procedures the close relationship of the inferior border of the sinus and maxillary posterior root apices of teeth makes it an absolute prerequisite for clinicians to have an in-depth knowledge of the aspect. This relationship makes it an indispensable diagnostic criterion in determining an orthodontic treatment which involves mesialisation or distalization of the molars, intrusion of the maxillary posteriors or micro-implant anchorage. A sound knowledge of the anatomic extensions of the maxillary sinus, especially the floor of the sinus, is fundamental tool to prevent damage to nearby vital structures.