Prevalence of Incidental Findings and Assessment of Maxillary Sinus Pathologies and Dental Diseases Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in the Tamil Nadu Population: A Retrospective Study

Background Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), a cross-sectional imaging technique, is valuable for clinical diagnosis and creating effective treatment plans. CBCT can precisely examine the connection between the maxillary sinuses and the maxillary root apices. Oral radiologists must be aware of all potential incidental findings and should be diligent in thoroughly identifying and assessing possible underlying diseases. Aim To determine the prevalence of incidental maxillary sinus pathologies and their relationship to dental diseases. Materials and methods In the present retrospective study, CBCT scans from 300 subjects (encompassing 600 right and left maxillary sinuses), aged 18 to 70, were gathered from various CBCT centers to represent the Tamil Nadu population. The CBCT images were analyzed using proprietary software, which provided both a panoramic reconstruction view and multiplanar reformation modules, including axial, sagittal, and coronal slices. The entire sample size was classified as follows: Group 1, age groups of 18 to 25 years; Group 2, age groups of 26 to 35 years; Group 3, age groups of 36 to 45 years; Group 4, age groups of 46 to 55 years; Group 5, age groups of 56 to 65 years; Group 6, age groups of 66 to 70 years. The prevalence of incidental maxillary sinus findings was analyzed, and their relationship with periapical abscess, periapical granuloma, periapical cyst, and breach was assessed. Results There was a prevalence of 52.05% of cases that had incidental maxillary sinus findings. Among them, 53.43% were males and 50.65% were females. Maxillary sinus pathologies were more common in individuals between 46 and 55 years, i.e., Group 4. In 300 datasets, the frequency of incidental maxillary sinus findings on the right is 21.33%, on the left is 24%, in both is 6.67%, and absent in 48% of the cases. Mucosal thickening was observed in 30% of cases with a periapical abscess, 19.52% with a periapical granuloma, 25% with a periapical cyst, and 51.79% with a breach. Polypoidal mucosal thickening was present in 32.50% of cases with a periapical abscess, 13.79% with a periapical granuloma, 50% with a periapical cyst, and 23.21% with a breach. Opacification occurred in 37.50% of cases with a periapical abscess, 20.69% with a periapical granuloma, 25% with a periapical cyst, and 25% with a breach. Conclusion Dental professionals should have a bird's-eye view in treating chronic odontogenic infections close to the maxillary sinus. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of odontogenic infections help prevent maxillary sinus pathologies.