Gross extrusion of endodontic obturation materials into the maxillary sinus: a case report

A gross extrusion of endodontic obturation materials occurred from tooth 3 into the right maxillary sinus. The patient had never been conscious of uncomfortable symptoms, both at tooth 3 or buccal regions. A computed tomographic (CT) scan showed cord-like foreign substances extruded from the apex of the tooth and the hyperplasticity of the sinal mucosa. The surgical removal of foreign substances and partial curettage of sinal mucosa were indicated to prevent the possibility of sinus infection. At the 4-month recall, the patient was symptom free. This case emphasizes that an open apex can become potentially dangerous when the vertical condensation method is used. If massive overfilling is recognized radiographically in molar regions, an examination using panoramic radiograph is indispensable to detect the gross extrusion into the maxillary sinus, such as in this case.