Where?
Between the mouth and maxillary sinus.
← All explanationsOro-antral communication
What is an opening between the mouth and the maxillary sinus?
An oro-antral communication is an opening between the mouth and the maxillary sinus. It can occur after removal of an upper back tooth whose roots lay close to the sinus floor. Prompt dental or surgical assessment determines whether treatment or closure is needed.
For training & practice ↓
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Adjacent spaces
Upper back teeth and the maxillary sinus often lie close together. Tissue normally separates the mouth from the air-filled sinus.
The barrier is interrupted
A procedure may leave an opening. Fluid passing towards the nose or air moving through the wound can be noticed.
Arrange early assessment
Contact the treating practice directly if suspected. Do not test it by forceful nose blowing; pressure precautions and aftercare depend on the findings.
At a glance
Self-test?
Do not test by nose blowing.
New suspicion?
Contact the treating practice the same day.
Knowledge in motion
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available below.
Read the film text in English
Adjacent spaces
Upper back teeth and the maxillary sinus often lie close together. Tissue normally separates the mouth from the air-filled sinus.
The barrier is interrupted
A procedure may leave an opening. Fluid passing towards the nose or air moving through the wound can be noticed.
Arrange early assessment
Contact the treating practice directly if suspected. Do not test it by forceful nose blowing; pressure precautions and aftercare depend on the findings.
Often confused
Communication is different from sinusitis
A communication is an anatomical opening. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus. They may coexist but require separate assessment.
Quick answers
Does every opening close on its own?
No. Size, timing, tissue condition and inflammation influence management; some openings require closure.
Should I test it by blowing my nose?
No. Self-testing can strain the wound. A clinician should assess it.
Is it the same as a fistula?
A persistent, lined connection may be called an oro-antral fistula. A fresh opening and an established fistula are not identical.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Is there a communication with the sinus, and what wound care is needed now?
For a new concern following treatment, call the treating practice first. If it is unavailable, contact the dental emergency service.
Call the practice · 0221 669 401 80Telephone contactLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Antrum
- Here, the maxillary sinus in the upper jaw.
- Oro-antral
- Relating to the mouth and maxillary sinus.
- Fistula
- An abnormal tract, often lined when established.
Make the distinction
A communication is an anatomical opening. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus. They may coexist but require separate assessment.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.